Jhalokathi, Sept 21 (V7N) – Widespread allegations of corruption and irregularities have surfaced at Rajapur Government College in Jhalokathi. Reports suggest that college funds are being misused, rules are being ignored in financial matters, and students are being charged excessive and unjustified fees, severely undermining the academic environment.
 
According to investigations, the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) allocated Tk 5 lakh to the college over the past two fiscal years. However, the funds were allegedly withdrawn without proper utilization. Current Principal Humayun Ahmed and former Principal Babul Gazi are reported to have withdrawn Tk 2.5 lakh each. Sources claim they approved inflated vouchers submitted by the college’s purchase committee in exchange for personal benefits. On-site investigations revealed significant discrepancies between the vouchers and the actual goods procured.
 
Former Principal Babul Gazi, who has since retired, admitted to signing vouchers prepared by the committee but denied direct involvement in misappropriation. He revealed that Tk 1 lakh of the withdrawn amount had been returned to a teacher but the matter was later suppressed. Meanwhile, current Principal Humayun Ahmed failed to present vouchers or purchased items for verification. Instead, he allegedly requested that the issue not be reported and declined to appear on camera. Allegations suggest that he, too, signed off on false vouchers related to the withdrawn Tk 2.5 lakh which could be proven through an audit.
 
Further inquiries exposed irregularities in library book purchases, science lab equipment procurement, and stationery supplies. For instance, although a Tk 27,000 check was issued for books under the name of Librarian Salauddin, Tk 10,000 was deducted before payment. He was forced to pay the remaining amount from his own funds to the bookstore. Following an internal inquiry, the Principal later refunded the deducted Tk 10,000.
 
Parents and guardians of students expressed frustration, stating that the lack of transparency and accountability at the college has enabled corruption to grow unchecked. Local residents and conscious citizens also voiced anger over the misappropriation of DSHE funds.
 
They warned that corruption within educational institutions jeopardizes the future of students and called for immediate intervention by higher authorities. Demands have been made for a thorough investigation, strict auditing, and legal action to ensure accountability and restore trust in the institution.
 
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