At least six private colleges affiliated with Dr Manmohan Singh Bengaluru City University (MSBCU) have come under scrutiny following allegations that they collected money from students with attendance shortages to permit them to write ongoing odd-semester examinations.

According to complaints submitted to the university, some colleges allegedly charged students between Rs 5,000 and Rs 15,000 despite university rules not providing any provision for students with insufficient attendance to appear for examinations.

Complaints trigger university action

Following the allegations, university authorities summoned the principals of the colleges concerned for a meeting on Monday.

Student representatives claim that the practice has become widespread in some institutions. According to available information, one college allegedly collected nearly Rs 5 lakh from students as penalties, while another reportedly allowed around 80 students with attendance below the mandatory 75 per cent requirement to sit for examinations.

Lakshya Raj, president of the National Student Union of India (NSUI) unit at MSBCU, said documentary evidence and related records had been submitted to the university administration.

He warned that students would be compelled to launch protests if strict action was not taken against the institutions involved.

Students question fairness

The issue has also sparked concerns among students who maintained regular attendance throughout the semester.

Several students questioned the purpose of attendance regulations if colleges were able to issue hall tickets to students who failed to meet the prescribed requirement after collecting penalties.

Some students alleged that such collections had become a recurring practice during examination periods and claimed similar incidents had occurred in previous years.

University warns of strict measures

Vice-Chancellor Ramesh B confirmed receiving complaints and said the principals had been directed to refund the money collected from students.

He stated that colleges found violating university regulations could face disaffiliation if the practice continued.

The university is also expected to discuss the matter in its syndicate meeting and issue a general circular to all affiliated colleges, warning them against collecting unauthorised penalties from students.

Officials said further action would be decided after reviewing the complaints and evidence submitted by students.