New Delhi, Nov 8 (UNI) The Enforcement Directorate (ED), Lucknow Zonal Office, on Friday said it conducted search operations at fifteen locations across Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Haryana in connection with an ongoing investigation into a counterfeit degree scam involving Monad University.
The case originated from specific information that led the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) to raid Monad University on May 18.
During the raid, a large number of forged and counterfeit academic documents were recovered, including mark sheets, degrees, provisional certificates, and migration certificates, all purportedly issued by Monad University in Pilkhua, Hapur.
The accused allegedly forged thousands of such documents over a period of time, generating substantial illegal proceeds through their sale.
Ten accused were arrested, leading to the registration of an FIR in 2025 at Pilkhua Police Station in Hapur district, Uttar Pradesh. The Uttar Pradesh STF identified Vijendra Singh, also known as Vijendra Singh Hooda, as the mastermind and kingpin of the organised racket.
He is the Chancellor and controlling authority of Monad University and is alleged to have facilitated the preparation and issuance of counterfeit documents through the university network.
He also serves as the Secretary of Saraswati Medical College in Unnao. Subsequently, the UP STF filed a chargesheet against 11 accused before the Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh.
During searches conducted under Section 17 of the PMLA, 2002, the ED seized cash worth Rs 43 lakh, incriminating documents, and electronic devices. The ED said further investigation is ongoing.
