Loyola College, Chennai, is under intense scrutiny following a series of allegations that include operating an unauthorized off-campus recruitment program, misusing government funds, violating academic regulations, and engaging in questionable financial practices.
The Sathya Nilayam (Abode of Truth) Functioning Under False Premise?
There is an institution called Sathya Nilayam campus in Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai. While Loyola College is affiliated with the University of Madras, it has been found that this extension campus operates under separate conditions that raise legal and ethical concerns. The MA Philosophy program run at Sathya Nilayam appears to cater exclusively to Catholic students, particularly those training for religious missionary work of the Society of Jesus.
This raises the question: How can a university-affiliated institution restrict admission based on religious criteria? Under normal university regulations, courses should be open to students of all backgrounds. Yet, Sathya Nilayam’s own website suggests a clear alignment with the Jesuit order’s religious objectives, rather than a secular academic mission. This is in direct violation of the policies set by the University of Madras, which mandates that accredited courses be open to all eligible students.
Manipulation Of Certification And Degrees
Another disturbing revelation involves degree certification irregularities at Loyola College. Reports indicate that students who complete their M.A. Philosophy studies at Sathya Nilayam receive degree certificates that falsely indicate their enrollment at Loyola College’s main campus, allowing them to obtain credentials under misleading pretenses.
Such practices violate Madras University regulations and constitute academic fraud, raising serious legal implications. Documentary evidence, including an e-Sanad verified certificate from a past student, suggests clear discrepancies in how Loyola College has been issuing degrees over the years.
Furthermore, concerns have emerged that graduates from Sathya Nilayam’s religious-oriented courses are subsequently placed in missionary assignments across India, particularly in states like Arunachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Sikkim—regions known for religious conversion activities. This suggests that students may be funneled into missionary work under the guise of academic training, while simultaneously benefiting from government-funded educational schemes.
Exorbitant Fee Structure And Questionable Financial Practices
While Loyola College claims to be a minority institution serving the Christian community, the financial burden on students tells a different story. Compared to other government-aided institutions, Loyola College reportedly charges exorbitant fees. For instance, courses like B.Com, which could be completed at other government aided colleges like Pachiappas College & Vivekananda College for nominal fees, cost significantly more at Loyola, with additional hidden costs related to hostel accommodation and other expenses.
Many students are reportedly forced to stay in hostels, further increasing their financial burden. Unlike other colleges that maintain transparency in fee structures, Loyola College’s fee policies remain opaque, making it difficult for students and parents to understand the true cost of education.
UGC Scandal
The Commune had earlier published an extensive report on misappropriation of UGC funds by Loyola College.
A complaint to the Chairman of UGC had stated that the two individuals who orchestrated the scam are now in senior positions at Loyola College Chennai, with Dr. M. Selvanayagam being promoted to Head of Research of LICET Loyola I-Cam College of Engineering and Technology and Fr. Francis P. Xavier serving as Rector.
An interview of Rev Fr. Albert Muthumalai, quoted him as saying, “such a great institution meant to educate students, with high ethics and moral values has become a den of unquestionable corruption.”
Legal Challenges And Potential Consequences
The mounting allegations against Loyola College have led to calls for a formal investigation. If found guilty of academic fraud, financial misconduct, and violating university regulations, the institution could face severe consequences, including:
– Revocation of its affiliation with the University of Madras
– Legal action for financial misappropriation and misuse of government funds
– Loss of its minority institution status
– Increased regulatory scrutiny over its foreign funding and financial transactions
Expose By Maridhas
These revelations have been brought to light by Maridhas, a well-known YouTuber, analyst, and commentator on Tamil Nadu’s socio-political issues. He has also referred to Loyola College as a “Den of Wolves,” highlighting the severity of the alleged misconduct. Maridhas has further stated that he will not be intimidated by defamation cases foisted by Loyola College, indicating his commitment to exposing what he perceives as systemic corruption.
Maridhas says that the allegations against Loyola College go beyond administrative inefficiencies—they point to a deliberate misuse of educational privileges for financial and religious gains. Given the serious nature of these claims, an independent investigation is warranted. The Central Government, state government and the University of Madras must take immediate steps to ensure transparency and accountability in Loyola College’s operations.
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