ED raids FIITJEE offices in Delhi-NCR over alleged money laundering, fund diversion

Allegations of financial misconduct and fund diversion led authorities to initiate a deeper investigation into the institute’s operations.
| Photo Credit:
Sushil Kumar Verma/ THE HINDU

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday said it is carrying out raids at eight locations connected to FIITJEE, one of India’s most well-known coaching institutes, as part of an ongoing money laundering probe under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). 

The searches targeted the institute’s offices and the residence of its founder, D.K. Goel, across Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram.

The raids follow multiple FIRs filed in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh after the abrupt shutdown of several FIITJEE centers in January 2025. 

The closures left approximately 12,000 students stranded and sparked outrage from parents, many of whom had paid hefty advance fees without receiving refunds or notice. Allegations of financial misconduct and fund diversion led authorities to initiate a deeper investigation into the institute’s operations.

Sources familiar with the case say the ED is examining claims that tuition fees collected from students were misused or funneled into unrelated entities for personal gain, rather than supporting academic activities. 

During the searches, officials seized cash; documents; and digital evidence to trace the suspected money trail. 

In a parallel move, UP Police have reported already frozen over 300 bank accounts linked to FIITJEE and recovered ₹60 lakh in cash. 

Founder, DK Goel and 11 others have been named in the police investigation.

Founded in 1992, FIITJEE has long held a top spot in India’s competitive coaching industry, especially for students preparing for entrance exams like the JEE. The ongoing investigation has raised serious concerns about transparency and accountability within the sector.

ED’s findings could lead to arrests and property seizures if money laundering charges are proven. “Under the PMLA, the ED has sweeping powers to attach assets and prosecute offenders,” legal experts said. 

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Published on April 24, 2025