Major Financial Scam Uncovered in Jabalpur's Special Armed Force Battalion
A significant financial scandal involving approximately Rs 3 crore in travel allowance (TA) and daily allowance (DA) funds has been exposed within the 6th Battalion of the Special Armed Force (SAF) stationed at Ranjhi in Jabalpur. Investigators discovered that fraudulent travel bills were systematically generated over multiple years to illegally divert government money. The scheme involved showing personnel as being on outstation duty when, in reality, they never left the district boundaries.
Detailed Mechanics of the Fraudulent Operation
The elaborate scam, which operated from 2018 to 2019, centered around the manipulation of TA bills, OTP-based payment systems, and the bank accounts of various constables. Forensic examination revealed startling discrepancies where the money credited through these manipulated allowances substantially exceeded the actual salaries of the personnel involved. In one particularly egregious case, nearly Rs 55 lakh was funneled through 582 separate TA bills into a single constable's bank account. This amount was more than double his total earnings from seven years of salary and arrears, which amounted to only Rs 26 lakh.
Key Accused and Tragic Developments
Ranjhi police formally registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Lower Division Clerk Babu Satyam Sharma, who was posted in the TA branch and identified as the alleged mastermind behind the operation, along with constable Abhishek Jhariya. According to official statements, Sharma allegedly prepared the counterfeit bills, intercepted OTPs intended for legitimate beneficiaries, and retained a portion of the illicit funds for himself while distributing the remainder among his associates.
The investigation took a tragic turn after the irregularities came to light in November 2025. Following their suspension from duty, constable Abhishek Jhariya allegedly died by suicide on November 12 by jumping in front of a moving train. Meanwhile, Sharma disappeared shortly after the probe commenced and remains absconding as authorities continue their search.
Comprehensive Investigation and Broader Implications
The full magnitude of the scam became apparent after the State Finance Intelligence Cell, acting under directives from the Commissioner of Treasury and Accounts, conducted a thorough examination of bank transactions involving SAF personnel. The probe uncovered excessive payments not limited to travel allowances but extending to medical bills and FVC (Fixed Vehicle Charges) claims as well. Some bank accounts showed deposits reaching up to 200 times higher than the individuals' regular monthly salaries, indicating widespread financial manipulation.
Official Confirmation and Ongoing Proceedings
Confirming the legal action taken, Ranjhi police station in-charge Umesh Golhani stated, "An FIR was registered against two personnel in connection with the SAF TA scam. Approximately twelve additional individuals are currently under investigation and are being questioned regarding their potential involvement in the fraudulent activities." The case continues to develop as authorities work to uncover the complete network responsible for this substantial financial misconduct.
