The Bhopal branch of Delhi-based FIITJEE coaching institute has been closed for the past seven days amid allegations of embezzling crores of rupees from students.
In the last two days alone, 30 students and their families have lodged complaints of fraud at the MP Nagar police station. Around 700 students were enrolled at the institute, each paying fees ranging from Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 3 lakh for coaching services.
Parents and students alleged that the coaching center operator collected lump-sum fees from hundreds of students in July and August this year, while some students were allowed to make part payments. However, it is now revealed that the teaching staff have not received salaries for two to three months, prompting them to stop teaching. Since December 9, the coaching center has remained closed, and no representatives from FIITJEE have addressed the issue, leaving students and parents in distress.
Police officials, including MP Nagar TI Jaihind Sharma, stated that complaints from about 30 affected families have been filed, and an investigation is underway. "A case will be registered under sections related to fraud once the investigation is complete," Sharma assured.
The matter has also reached Bhopal District Collector Kaushlendra Vikram Singh, who has promised strict action against the coaching center. "Efforts will be made to ensure that the students’ fees are refunded," Singh said.
In response to the allegations, KK Pathak, a representative from FIITJEE, acknowledged the disruption caused by issues related to teacher salaries. "Some teachers joined another group, and some students followed them. Those who stayed behind are confused about what to do next. A team from Delhi is coming, and we expect to resolve the situation by Monday," he claimed.
This is not the first controversy involving FIITJEE. Five months ago, in Indore, 67 parents filed a complaint with the Additional DCP of the Crime Branch, accusing FIITJEE branches in the city of taking advance payments without providing promised coaching services. A case was subsequently registered against the director, branch manager, and admin in charge of the coaching institute. As the investigation unfolds in Bhopal, students and parents remain anxious about the fate of their education and the fees they have paid. The authorities have assured swift action to address the grievances and ensure accountability.
