Madhya Pradesh: Sardarpur Block Education Office's ₹1.17 Crore Scam Exposed

Sardarpur (Madhya Pradesh): A scam of Rs 1.17 crore has been uncovered in Sardarpur block education office, linked to the tenure of previous Block Education Officers. Investigations revealed that payments were suspiciously deposited into the accounts of close associates instead of legitimate employees or firms.

Despite the findings, no criminal case or departmental action has been taken against those involved. The investigation, conducted by Divisional Joint Director of Treasury and Accounts in Indore, highlighted fraudulent payments totalling Rs 1.17 crore from 2018-2019 to 2023-2024 fiscal.

This included irregularities in salary arrears, office expenses and house rent allowances. The report indicated that Rs 62.16 lakh was identified as suspicious, with Rs 5.24 lakh paid in excess for house rent allowances.

Collector Priyank Mishra had instructed Tribal Affairs Department Assistant Commissioner of Dhar to initiate criminal proceedings and disciplinary action against guilty parties on December 9,2024.

However, two months later, no action has been taken. Assistant Commissioner Manisha Gautam stated she was unaware of the Collector's letter, as she was not in her position at that time.

Also, she has not been given any information regarding the matter from Block Education Office, Sardarpur. MLA Pratap Grewal has written to the Principal Secretary of Tribal Affairs Department, demanding accountability of Block Education Officers and employees involved in the scam.