Lucknow: The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Lucknow Zonal Office, conducted search operations on November 6, 2025, at 15 locations across Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Haryana under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, in connection with the ongoing investigation into the Monad University counterfeit degree scam.
Fake Degree Racket Exposed
The case originated after the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) conducted a raid on Monad University, Pilkhua (Hapur) on May 18, 2025, and recovered a large number of forged academic documents — including mark sheets, degree certificates, provisional certificates, and migration certificates — allegedly issued by the university.
Investigations revealed that the accused had forged thousands of fake documents over time and earned substantial illegal proceeds by selling them. The STF arrested ten individuals and registered FIR No. 290/2025 at Pilkhua Police Station, District Hapur, Uttar Pradesh.
Chancellor Identified as Kingpin
According to the UP STF, the mastermind and kingpin of the racket is Vijendra Singh alias Vijendra Singh Hooda, the Chancellor and controlling authority of Monad University. He allegedly facilitated the preparation and issuance of counterfeit academic documents through the university’s internal network.
Hooda also serves as the Secretary of Saraswati Medical College, Unnao, indicating his influence across multiple educational institutions. Following the investigation, the STF filed Charge Sheet No. 01 dated August 11, 2025, against 11 accused individuals before the CJM Court, Hapur.
ED Recovers ₹43 Lakh Cash and Electronic Evidence
During searches conducted under Section 17 of the PMLA, 2002, the ED seized incriminating documents, cash amounting to ₹43 lakh, and several electronic devices. The seized materials are suspected to be linked to money laundering and illegal financial transactions arising from the sale of fake degrees.
Investigation Continues
The Enforcement Directorate stated that the case represents a serious instance of misuse of educational institutions and systematic financial fraud. The agency is currently tracing the flow of illicit funds and identifying other beneficiaries involved in the network.
The ED emphasized that further investigation is underway, focusing on uncovering additional assets acquired through the illegal proceeds and determining the broader extent of the criminal enterprise.
The operation marks a significant step by the ED to curb corruption and financial malpractice in the education sector, particularly targeting organized networks engaged in academic fraud and money laundering.
