A major financial irregularities case in Nawanshahr district of Punjab has created a stir in the education sector. A criminal case has been registered against Sandeep Singh Kaura, adviser to the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and former chancellor of Lamrin Tech Skills University, Rupnagar, over allegations of large-scale financial misconduct. The action has been taken by police on the basis of a complaint filed by university owner and promoter Nirmal Singh Rayat.
Statutory FIR Bookings and Multi-Crore Discrepancies
According to preliminary information, the case has been registered under Sections 316(4) and 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), covering charges related to criminal breach of trust and cheating. The complaint alleges that during his tenure at the university, Kaura was involved in suspicious financial transactions worth around ₹13.46 crore, while the overall estimated irregularities are said to be close to ₹36 crore. Police have initiated a detailed probe and are examining all financial records.
As per the complaint, the university had received nearly ₹5 crore from NSDC for skill development programmes. It is alleged that out of this sanctioned amount, ₹1.10 crore was transferred from the university’s ICICI Bank account to a private HDFC Bank account reportedly linked to Kaura. This transaction has become a key focus of the ongoing investigation.
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Land Acquisition Appraisals and Document Scrutiny
The complaint further alleges serious irregularities in the purchase of land measuring 51 kanals and 19 marlas near the university campus. It is claimed that proper procedures were not followed and transparency was lacking in the financial dealings related to the land acquisition. Investigating agencies are now scrutinizing all documents related to the land purchase, including payment records and ownership details.
The case also includes allegations of violations in the university’s administrative appointments. According to the complaint, Sandeep Singh Kaura appointed his wife, Parvinder Kaur, first as Pro Vice-Chancellor and later as Pro Chancellor, raising concerns over conflict of interest and violation of institutional rules and governance procedures.
Forensic Audit Trailing and Administrative Investigations
Police officials have confirmed that ASI Sandeep Kumar has been assigned to lead the investigation. He is currently examining bank account statements, property documents, and administrative records in detail. Early findings have reportedly raised questions about the authenticity of several financial transactions and official documents, prompting the possibility of a forensic audit.
So far, no official response has been issued by the accused party. It is reported that their mobile phones are switched off and they have not been reachable. Police have stated that additional charges may be added as the investigation progresses and further evidence emerges.
Institutional Oversight Deficits and Accountability Controls
The case has triggered wider discussions on financial transparency and governance in educational institutions. Experts believe that lack of strong institutional oversight and weak monitoring mechanisms often lead to such large-scale financial disputes and alleged mismanagement in academic setups.
Police and investigative agencies are now intensifying their scrutiny of bank transactions, land dealings, and administrative decisions taken during the period in question. Officials have indicated that as the investigation moves forward, a clearer picture of the financial trail and possible responsibilities will emerge.
