Chandigarh/Ludhiana: In a significant move to curb educational irregularities and safeguard the credibility of Punjab’s education system, the state government has taken strict action against an alleged “ghost school” in Ludhiana for enrolling students for Class 12 board examinations without having the required infrastructure, particularly for practical exams.
Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains revealed that the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) has withdrawn the recognition of Dasmesh Public Senior Secondary School, Mehdoodan (School Code 3100187) in Ludhiana and initiated criminal proceedings for submitting fraudulent documents. The board has also cancelled the roll numbers of 27 students who were registered by the school for the Class 12 examinations.
Punjab Govt has cracked down on Dasmesh Public Senior Secondary School, Mehdoodan (Ludhiana) — a “Ghost School” found existing only on paper and playing with students’ futures.
Recognition has been withdrawn and criminal proceedings initiated against those responsible.
Under…
— Harjot Singh Bains (@harjotbains) February 16, 2026
According to the minister Harjot Singh Bains , a physical inspection found that the school was not operational. The premises were reportedly rented out, with no classes being conducted on site. Further verification indicated that the 27 students enrolled for the examinations could not be traced, leading the board to cancel their registrations.
Harjot Singh Bains Says Four More Schools Under Investigation in Ongoing Crackdown on Exam Malpractices
Harjot Singh Bains added that four other schools are currently under investigation as part of a wider crackdown on institutions allegedly involved in compromising educational standards and engaging in examination-related malpractices.
Reaffirming the government’s stance, the minister stated that the Government of Punjab, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to ensuring quality education and safeguarding students’ futures. He asserted that strict action would be taken against any institution found operating as a “ghost school” or jeopardising students’ academic prospects, with no tolerance for violations.
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The Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains also assured parents and genuine students that their interests would be protected. He said necessary steps would be taken to rehabilitate affected students and provide proper guidance. Investigation teams have been directed to speed up inquiries into other suspected schools and submit their reports promptly.