Ahmedabad DEO issues final notice to Seventh Day School in Khokhra over ‘suspicious’ transactions of Rs 7.3 crore

Ahmedabad: In a fresh development, the Ahmedabad city district education officer (DEO) has issued another notice to Seventh Day School in Khokhra after the institution failed to submit its financial records despite repeated directives. The action follows an audit that allegedly flagged suspicious transactions worth more than Rs 7.31 crore, raising serious concerns about financial irregularities.According to officials, the school was earlier asked to present detailed accounts explaining the transactions, including the alleged transfer of funds to private companies. However, even after receiving the initial notice and seeking time until March 30, the school reportedly failed to provide any financial clarification. Taking a strict stance, the DEO has now given the school a final deadline of three days to submit all relevant documents, warning of unilateral action if it fails to comply.The controversy surrounding the school began after a Class 10 student's murder by a fellow student right outside the campus triggered a broader investigation into its administration. Following multiple findings, the govt took over the management of the school. Despite this, further inquiries conducted by DEO Rohit Chaudhary reportedly uncovered several irregularities in financial dealings.Investigation revealed that the school transferred substantial funds to institutions such as Seventh Day Arts and Science College and a BBA college, without providing any clear justification or legal basis. Additionally, large sums were allegedly routed to private firms including Learning Board of Education Pvt Ltd and E-Mission Exhibition Pvt Ltd, further intensifying suspicions of financial misconduct.Officials have emphasised that the lack of transparency and failure to submit accounts despite repeated opportunities raises serious questions about the school's financial practices. The DEO has warned that if the school does not furnish complete details within the stipulated three days, it will be assumed that the institution has no explanation to offer. In such a case, strict action will be initiated as per rules, and a detailed report will be submitted to the state govt for further proceedings.