Tue Dec 31 18:34:52 UTC 2024: ## ED Seeks Details on Karnataka Engineering Seat-Blocking Scam

**Bengaluru, January 1, 2025** – The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has requested a comprehensive report from the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) regarding an alleged engineering seat-blocking scam. The KEA, however, has responded that the investigation is ongoing and is being handled by the Malleshwaram Police, to whom they have referred the ED’s request. Police confirmed they will provide all relevant information if requested.

The ED’s inquiry follows media reports detailing the scam involving several private engineering colleges. The investigation is focusing on the manipulation of 52 government quota seats, allegedly blocked to benefit BMS College of Engineering, Akash Institute of Engineering and Technology, and New Horizon College of Engineering, allowing these institutions to allocate them under their management quota.

The scam was initially uncovered by a KEA official and led to the arrest of a 10-member gang, including a KEA contractual employee, following a complaint registered by the KEA with the Malleshwaram Police. The ED is seeking details including the FIR, colleges involved, individuals implicated, and the financial aspects of the scam. The KEA’s response to the ED stated there is no separate KEA inquiry. Counseling for engineering courses is currently underway.

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