The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) of the Delhi government has arrested nine individuals, including owners and directors of coaching institutes, in connection with a scam linked to the Jai Bhim Mukhyamantri Pratibha Vikas Yojana. The arrests were made following a case registered by the Department of Welfare of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), which alleged that several empanelled coaching institutes committed irregularities to fraudulently obtain funds from the government exchequer under the scheme during the 2018-19 period.
Scheme Background and Expansion
The Jai Bhim Mukhyamantri Pratibha Vikas Yojana was launched in 2017 with the objective of providing coaching to SC students for competitive examinations. Initially, eight institutes were empanelled, enrolling approximately 5,000 students. Under the scheme, coaching fees and stipends were to be paid directly to the institutes. In the 2019-20 academic year, the scheme was expanded to include students from Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). Consequently, 38 more institutes were added to the empanelled list.
Financial and Enrollment Details
In total, around 22,000 students were enrolled under the scheme, and the institutes collectively received approximately Rs 37.2 crore. However, during the investigation, authorities uncovered multiple irregularities. These included duplicate student entries, failure to maintain separate bank accounts for the scheme, and instances where stipends were not disbursed to the students. Additionally, some students were sent to local tuition centres instead of the empanelled institutes, which violated the scheme's guidelines.
Investigative Findings and Non-Cooperation
Despite being served notices, the accused failed to provide satisfactory explanations for the discrepancies. The ACB's investigation revealed a systematic attempt to siphon off funds meant for the welfare of students from disadvantaged communities. The arrested individuals are currently in custody, and further inquiries are underway to determine the full extent of the fraud.
Impact and Reactions
The scam has raised serious concerns about the implementation of government welfare schemes. Officials have emphasized that strict action will be taken against those who exploit such initiatives for personal gain. The Delhi government has assured that it will review the empanelment process and strengthen monitoring mechanisms to prevent future occurrences.
