FIITJEE, a renowned coaching institute chain known for preparing students for competitive exams like the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), has abruptly shut down several of its centres across India. The closures have left students and parents scrambling for alternatives just as the first phase of the JEE (Main) examination commenced on January 22.
The shutdowns have affected prominent branches in Delhi-NCR, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, including centres in Laxmi Nagar and Noida Sector 62 in Delhi, and others in Meerut, Ghaziabad, Lucknow, Varanasi, Bhopal, Andheri, Kandivali, Thane, and Navi Mumbai.
Financial Crisis and Mass Resignations
FIITJEE, which operates 73 centres nationwide, has reportedly been grappling with a severe financial crisis. Many branches witnessed mass resignations from staff due to non-payment of salaries, further exacerbating the situation.
In Ghaziabad, the Raj Nagar centre was abruptly shut down approximately 10 days ago after parents filed a First Information Report (FIR). Parents alleged that teachers had not been paid their dues and accused the institute of endangering their children’s academic futures.
Legal Troubles and Licensing Issues
The Ghaziabad District School Inspector Dharmendra Sharma revealed that FIITJEE’s Raj Nagar centre was operating without a proper license. Assistant Commissioner of Police Abhishek Srivastava confirmed that a police investigation is underway following the FIR.
In Delhi, complaints were filed at the Preet Vihar and Kalu Sarai police stations. A Delhi Police officer stated, “We are looking into complaints from parents regarding the abrupt closure of FIITJEE centres.”
Impact in Mumbai and Online Operations
In the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), three to four FIITJEE centres were shut down in December. While the Andheri centre has shifted to online operations at a limited capacity, other centres, including those in Kandivali and Navi Mumbai, remain closed.
Parent Concerns and Fee Refunds
The sudden closures have disrupted the academic plans of thousands of students, many of whom had paid over ₹90,000 for a one-year classroom program designed for Class 12 students or recent graduates. Parents are now demanding refunds and alternative arrangements for their children.
What’s Next for FIITJEE?
With legal complaints piling up and financial instability at its core, FIITJEE’s future remains uncertain. Students and parents are now looking for alternative coaching institutes as the competitive exam season continues.
Key Takeaways for Students and Parents
For students and parents seeking coaching options, it’s crucial to research institutes thoroughly, ensure proper licensing, and verify their financial stability before enrolling. FIITJEE’s recent closures underscore the importance of transparency and accountability in the education sector.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.