HYDRAA finds 52 forged fire safety certificates in junior colleges

Forged certificates uncovered in routine check

In a significant crackdown on safety compliance, the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has detected 52 forged fire safety certificates submitted by junior colleges across the city. The discovery came during a routine verification drive aimed at ensuring educational institutions adhere to mandatory safety norms.

Officials said the certificates were found to be fabricated during cross-checks with the fire department's records. The colleges had submitted these documents to obtain or renew their No Objection Certificates (NOCs), a mandatory requirement for operation.

How the forgery came to light

The verification process involved matching the submitted certificates against the fire department's digital database, which revealed discrepancies in serial numbers and official seals. HYDRAA officials have not yet disclosed the names of the colleges involved, but sources indicate that a detailed report is being prepared.

“The scale of the forgery suggests a coordinated attempt to bypass safety protocols,” a senior official said on condition of anonymity. The agency has alerted the education department and is likely to recommend disciplinary action, including possible cancellation of affiliations.

Risks and implications for students

Fire safety certificates are critical for junior colleges, which often house hundreds of students in multi-storey buildings. A lack of genuine certification could mean inadequate fire exits, faulty alarm systems, and non-existent firefighting equipment, posing grave risks in emergencies.

This incident highlights a broader concern about compliance in the education sector. In recent months, authorities have intensified inspections following several safety lapses reported in coaching centres and hostels across the state.

Legal action and next steps

HYDRAA is expected to file complaints against the colleges under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code for forgery and cheating. The education department may also issue show-cause notices, mandating the institutions to submit genuine certificates within a stipulated timeframe.

Officials have said that a comprehensive audit of all junior colleges in the city is on the cards. They have also urged private institutions to self-audit their safety measures to avoid penal action.

As investigations progress, the focus remains on ensuring that no student is left vulnerable due to administrative negligence. The coming weeks will reveal the full extent of the crackdown and whether more such cases emerge.