Mangaluru: Students of Swastika National Business School have lodged a formal complaint against a private firm identified as “Vexon,” operating opposite Shreyas Sweets in Kudroli, alleging that the company is exploiting college students under the pretext of offering training and employment opportunities.
According to the written complaint submitted to the authorities, the firm collects ₹2,000 as a training fee and conducts a three-day programme. However, students claim that the sessions involve intense persuasion and misleading representations about job prospects and earnings.
The complainants have urged authorities to initiate a detailed inquiry into the company’s activities and verify its licensing and operational legitimacy.
Allegations of pressure and high-cost purchase
Students stated that after completion of the three-day programme, participants are allegedly instructed to purchase a product worth ₹51,000. They further alleged that trainees are pressured to sell the product within a specified period.
“If students fail to achieve sales targets, they are allegedly told to adopt a ‘chain system’ by bringing in three more students each,” the complaint states. According to the complainants, this method draws additional students into the system, creating financial and emotional strain.
The students asserted that several participants, particularly female students, have been affected by the alleged practices, leading to mental stress and disruption of academic schedules.
Strict monitoring during sessions
The complaint also details the daily routine followed during the programme. Students claim they were required to leave their accommodation by 7 am and report for sessions at the firm’s premises. From 7 am until approximately 2.30 pm to 3 pm, mobile phones were allegedly withheld. Even after being returned, phone usage was said to be strictly restricted.
Sessions reportedly resumed after 7.30 pm, during which the same material presented earlier in the day was repeated.
“24/7 they were with us. Even while going to the washroom, someone would wait outside,” a student mentioned in the complaint. Interaction with other newcomers was allegedly limited, and one participant was reportedly reprimanded by a senior member when she attempted to speak with another student.
Concerns over documentation
Serious concerns were also raised regarding documentation procedures. Students alleged that Aadhaar cards and photographs were collected on the first day itself. They were reportedly made to sign forms as confirmation of participation.
The complainants claimed they were compelled to remain until the third day and attend all sessions without interruption. They have expressed apprehension over how their personal documents might be used and whether proper consent procedures were followed.
The students emphasised that the issue affects a significant number of individuals. They stated that the management of Swastika National Business School extended support after learning about the situation, following which they collectively approached the authorities with a written complaint seeking urgent intervention.
Call for investigation
In their representation, the students have urged officials to conduct a thorough investigation into the functioning of the firm, examine whether it possesses valid permissions to operate such programmes, and determine if any financial or legal violations have occurred.
They have also sought action to prevent other students from being drawn into similar programmes without full awareness of the financial commitments involved.
As of now, there has been no official response from the firm regarding the allegations. Authorities are expected to review the complaint and take appropriate steps in accordance with the law.
The incident has sparked concern among students and parents in Mangaluru, highlighting the need for greater vigilance when private entities approach young people with promises of quick earnings and career advancement. Further developments are awaited as authorities examine the matter.