CBI nabs 10, including NAAC officials, in bribery case for A++ rating

Guntur – Andhra Pradesh: According to a press release on Feb 1, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has apprehended 10 individuals, including NAAC team members and office bearers of an educational foundation in Vaddeswaram, Guntur (Andhra Pradesh), over allegations of bribery in exchange for a favorable A++ NAAC accreditation rating. The agency has launched a massive search operation across multiple cities in India and recovered cash, gold, mobile phones, and laptops linked to the bribery scandal.

Bribery for higher NAAC ratings

The CBI registered a case against the office bearers of the educational foundation and NAAC Inspection Team members, alleging they conspired to secure a higher NAAC accreditation rating by offering undue advantages to officials. The accused were involved in paying bribes to public servants to influence the grading process.

Nationwide searches uncover cash and gold

Following the case registration, CBI officials conducted search operations at 20 locations across India, including Chennai, Bangalore, Vijayawada, Palamu, Sambalpur, Bhopal, Bilaspur, Gautam Budh Nagar, and New Delhi. The searches resulted in the seizure of:

₹37 lakh in cash (approximately)
6 Lenovo laptops
1 iPhone 16 Pro mobile phone
Other incriminating materials

Ongoing investigation

The CBI has confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing, with more leads being examined. The crackdown has raised concerns over corruption in the accreditation process, which plays a crucial role in determining the credibility of higher education institutions in India.