Maharashtra Government Orders Statewide Inquiry into Illegal College Fees

Pune, 28th April 2026: Maharashtra Higher Education Minister Chandrakant Patil has ordered a detailed inquiry into alleged illegal fee collection by colleges across the state, following irregularities found at ILS Law College.

The action follows a probe conducted on the directions of the Bombay High Court, which found that the Pune-based college had charged students fees without mandatory approval. The inquiry revealed that several charges were collected under different heads without permission from Savitribai Phule Pune University, in violation of prescribed rules.

Based on the findings, the minister has directed the college to refund the excess amount collected from students along with 6% interest. In one instance, more than ₹1 lakh was reportedly charged under multiple unauthorized fee components.

Taking serious note of the issue, the state government has now decided to expand the probe to other colleges across Maharashtra. Authorities have been asked to review complaints related to fee irregularities and take strict action against institutions found violating norms.

The move aims to ensure transparency in fee structures and protect students from financial exploitation. The government's decision is expected to bring a significant change in the way colleges operate and manage their fee structures, ensuring that students are not burdened with additional, unauthorized charges.

Minister Patil emphasized the importance of compliance with regulatory norms and stated that the government is committed to providing a fair and transparent educational environment for all students. He also urged students and parents to report any instances of illegal fee collection to the concerned authorities.

This initiative is part of the broader efforts by the Maharashtra government to improve the quality and accessibility of higher education in the state. The state has been actively working on various reforms to enhance the educational landscape and ensure that students have a fair and just learning environment.

The government's proactive approach in addressing such issues is a welcome step and is expected to set a precedent for other states to follow. It also highlights the need for continuous monitoring and strict enforcement of rules to prevent any form of exploitation in the educational sector.

The ongoing inquiry is expected to cover a wide range of institutions, including both government and private colleges, to ensure that no stone is left unturned in the quest for transparency and accountability in fee collection practices.

In the meantime, students and parents are advised to stay informed about the latest developments and to actively participate in the process by reporting any irregularities they come across. The government's commitment to this cause is a significant step towards ensuring a more equitable and fair educational system in Maharashtra.