THE SCHOLARSHIP SCANDAL

Behind the Scenes at a University.

- Dr. Supreena Narayanan

It was a normal morning in Mumbai, where the sunshine spread across the city — a patchwork of bejewelled office towers and jam-packed streets that never really seemed to sleep. The city pulsed with life, alive with the energy of millions striving toward their aspirations through its endless maze.

One of them was Ananya, a brilliant second-year student at Mumbai University, naturally curious and driven.

Ananya lived in a small rented flat near her university, sharing it with roommates who were equally immersed in their studies — much like the eternal city they lived in. The apartment, though modest, was her sanctuary — her solace amid the city's din. Most of the time, she sat there working on her laptop or scrolling on her phone, staying plugged into the world. Though she remained active on social media — following trends, news, and friends — she had no idea that one ordinary scroll would soon launch her into a world of corruption, scandal, and danger.

Everything began with a casual conversation at the university cafeteria. It was the weekend, and Ananya and her friends were discussing their future goals when her friend Priya, a reserved but high-achieving student, suddenly raised the topic of scholarships.

“You guys heard about the scholarship fund?” Priya asked, barely above a whisper.

“What about it?” Ananya leaned in, intrigued.

“I think it's being misused,” Priya said quietly. “My cousin is in the student union, and they've been discussing how some people are receiving scholarships even though they don't really need them. The money that should go to deserving students is being redirected.”

Ananya's curiosity was instantly piqued. She had heard of such things happening elsewhere, but at her university — one of the top in the country? That was unimaginable. Yet the more Priya spoke, the more Ananya's suspicions grew. She realised she had to find out more.