Shimla:
In a major development in the Fake Degree Scam case, the Hon’ble Special Court (PMLA), Shimla has declared Ashoni Kanwar (mother) and her son Mandeep Rana as Fugitive Economic Offenders (FEOs) under the provisions of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEOA), 2018.
The declaration was made vide an order dated January 3, 2026, on an application filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Shimla Sub-Zonal Office.
According to the ED, both accused persons have wilfully evaded the process of Indian law and have remained outside the jurisdiction of Indian courts despite repeated summons and legal proceedings initiated against them in connection with the fake degree racket.
An ED official said the court was satisfied that the accused had absconded to avoid criminal prosecution and fulfilled all statutory requirements under the FEOA.
“The declaration as Fugitive Economic Offenders enables attachment and confiscation of their properties, both in India and abroad, which were acquired through proceeds of crime,” the ED stated.
The Fake Degree Scam pertains to the issuance and use of forged educational degrees, allegedly used for securing employment and other benefits, causing significant financial loss and undermining the credibility of academic institutions.
With the FEO declaration, the ED can now move ahead with confiscation of movable and immovable assets linked to Ashoni Kanwar and Mandeep Rana, even in their absence.
The case continues to be under investigation.
