Dead Souls on Payroll: MNREGA Scam Unveiled in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh
In a startling revelation from Sambhal district, Uttar Pradesh, a major scam under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) has come to light. The current village head, Sunita Yadav, is accused of creating job cards for deceased villagers and fraudulently withdrawing wages by falsely documenting completed work. The district administration has confirmed the ongoing investigation and has initiated recovery proceedings against the Gram Pradhan.
MNREGA – The Deception Unfolds
The scam involved generating fake job cards in the names of deceased individuals and recording fictitious work under MNREGA. These fraudulent entries allowed the misappropriation of government funds intended for rural employment. The malpractice not only siphoned off public money but also undermined the integrity of a scheme designed to provide livelihood to the rural poor.
MNREGA – Administrative Action
Upon discovery, the district administration took swift action by initiating a thorough investigation into the fraudulent activities. Recovery proceedings have commenced against Sunita Yadav, and further legal actions are anticipated as the inquiry progresses. The administration is also reviewing other job cards to identify and rectify similar discrepancies.
Broader Implications
This incident is not isolated. Similar fraudulent activities have been reported in other regions, highlighting systemic vulnerabilities in the MNREGA implementation. For instance, in Hamirpur district, a comparable scam was uncovered where payments were made to deceased individuals under the scheme. These recurring issues underscore the need for stringent monitoring and verification mechanisms to safeguard public funds.
Community Response
The local community has expressed outrage over the misuse of funds meant for the welfare of the rural populace. There is a growing demand for stricter oversight and accountability to prevent such malpractices in the future. Ensuring transparency and integrity in the execution of welfare schemes remains a pressing concern.
Also Read: India’s Bhargavastra: Revolutionary Counter-Drone System Successfully Tested