Mumbai: The Maharashtra State Minorities Commission has initiated an inquiry into alleged irregularities in minority quota admissions across certain engineering colleges in the state following reports that admissions may have been secured using forged documents.

Taking serious cognizance of the allegations, the Commission expressed concern that such practices could adversely impact genuine minority students and compromise the integrity of the admission process.

As part of the inquiry, the Commission has sought detailed reports from the Directorate of Technical Education (DTE), Admission Regulatory Authority (ARA), and the Department of Technical Education. These authorities have been directed to provide factual information regarding the extent and nature of any irregularities linked to admissions under the minority quota.

Rights of Genuine Minority Students Must Be Protected

Maharashtra State Minorities Commission Chairman Pyare Khan said the allegations are a matter of grave concern and warned against misuse of provisions meant for eligible students.

According to Khan, if ineligible candidates have managed to secure admissions under the minority quota through forged documents, it amounts to a serious violation that directly affects deserving minority students.

“The complaints regarding admissions secured in engineering colleges under the minority quota through forged documents are extremely serious. This is not merely a violation of rules, but a direct infringement on the rights of genuine minority students. The Maharashtra State Minorities Commission has taken cognizance of the matter and sought detailed reports from the Department of Technical Education, DTE, and ARA. If any individual, middleman, institution, or official is found guilty during the inquiry, strict action will be recommended against them,” Pyare Khan said.

Authorities Asked to Submit Detailed Findings

The Commission stated that once the reports are received, a comprehensive review of the matter will be carried out. It also indicated that accountability will be fixed if any wrongdoing is established.

Officials said recommendations may also be made to strengthen safeguards in the admission process and prevent similar alleged malpractices in future admission cycles.

The inquiry comes amid growing scrutiny over transparency and compliance in professional college admissions across Maharashtra.