In Brief
Widespread misconduct revealed in the 'Dear Sister' scheme
8 thousand government employee beneficiaries in the Dear Sister scheme
15 crores to be recovered
(Ladki Bahin Yojana) A shocking reality has emerged of large-scale fraud in the popular 'Ladki Bahin' scheme started for women in Maharashtra. This scheme is limited to women who are economically weak and have an annual income of less than two and a half lakh rupees. However, it has been revealed that government and retired employees have taken advantage of this scheme by flouting the rules.
According to official statistics, the number of such bogus beneficiaries is more than 8,000, and the process of recovering nearly 15 crore rupees from their salaries and pensions has begun. The finance department has ordered the concerned departments to directly deduct the amount.
The Women and Child Welfare Department, with the help of the Information Technology Department, has prepared a list of beneficiaries. This includes Zilla Parishad employees, teachers, female employees from various government departments, as well as retired employees. The amount will be recovered from the concerned parties in installments or as a lump sum.
Meanwhile, employees found guilty may face disciplinary action under the Maharashtra Civil Services Rules 1979. The government has taken this matter seriously, and a punitive decision is expected to be announced in the coming days.
Notably, this scheme was announced before the assembly elections with a provision of 3,600 crores. However, due to a large number of bogus applications, the government has started a thorough investigation. The government's aim is to ensure that the benefits reach only the eligible and truly needy women, and this campaign is being conducted for transparency.