Ed raids 15 locations across UP, Delhi and Haryana in Monad University fake degree scam

Lucknow: The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Lucknow Zonal Office, conducted search operations on Thursday, November 6, 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 probe into the Monad University counterfeit degree scam.The action stems from a case initiated following a raid by the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) at Monad University, Pilkhua, Hapur, on May 18, 2025. The STF recovered a large number of forged and fake academic documents, including mark sheets, degrees, provisional certificates, and migration certificates purportedly issued by the university. Investigations revealed that thousands of such documents were forged over time and sold for huge sums, generating substantial illegal proceeds.The STF identified Vijendra Singh alias Vijendra Singh Hooda, Chancellor of Monad University and Secretary of Saraswati Medical College, Unnao, as the mastermind of the racket. He allegedly oversaw the preparation and distribution of counterfeit academic credentials through the university’s internal network.An FIR was registered at Pilkhua police station, Hapur, following which 10 accused were arrested and a chargesheet was filed on August 11, 2025, against 11 individuals.

During Thursday’s search operations under Section 17 of the PMLA, the ED seized incriminating documents, ₹43 lakh in cash, and several electronic devices. Officials said further investigation into the money trail and linked entities is underway.