Bribe for NAAC rating: CBI team conducts search at Sambalpur University Professor’s quarters

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) carried out a raid at the quarters of Sambalpur University Professor Bulu Moharana, who is facing allegations of accepting bribe in exchange for influencing Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) rating. The CBI had earlier, along with Moharana, arrested 10 persons.

Moharana was one among the team which had gone to inspect an institution under investigation Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation (KLEF) in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh.

The CBI also sealed the official residence of the accused Professor Bulu Moharana at Jyoti Vihar. On Tuesday, the quarters of Moaharana was searched by the CBI team in Odisha.

Also Read: Bribe for NAAC rating: Sambalpur University Professor among 10 arrested by CBI; over Rs 35 lakh seized

The CBI had registered a case against KLEF office bearers and NAAC Inspection Team members following allegations that undue advantages were given to public servants to secure a favourable rating. 

Later, the CBI conducted searches at 20 locations across India, including Chennai, Bangalore, Vijayawada, Palamu, Sambalpur, Bhopal, Bilaspur, Gautam Budh Nagar and New Delhi.

Rs 37 lakh, 6 laptops, gold, laptops, mobile phones, and other incriminating materials, allegedly provided as bribes to influence the accreditation process were seized during the CBI raids.

The investigation was triggered by accusations that Professor Maharana had been involved in a scheme to accept payments which would alter the standing of a private university in official assessments. This development has raised concerns over academic transparency and integrity within the region.

What Is NAAC?

The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) is an autonomous body to assess and accredit higher education institutions in India. The NAAC accreditation process involves a comprehensive evaluation of an institution's performance in various aspects, including curriculum, teaching-learning, research, infrastructure, and student support. The ratings significantly impact an institution's reputation, funding opportunities, and ability to attract students and faculty.

NAAC Rating Bribery Impact:

The NAAC rating bribery scandal has far-reaching implications for the Indian higher education system. It raises serious questions about the credibility of accreditation processes and the overall quality assurance mechanisms in place. This incident may lead to increased scrutiny of past accreditations and potentially trigger a comprehensive review of the NAAC's procedures. The scandal also highlights the need for more robust anti-corruption measures in educational institutions and regulatory bodies.