Is There a Rs 200 Crore Scam Behind Kejriwal's Women’s Pension Scheme?
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Synopsis
Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva has accused the former Kejriwal government of orchestrating a massive Rs 200 crore scam involving nearly 60,000 fake beneficiaries in the women’s pension scheme. He is demanding a comprehensive investigation into these serious allegations, urging the Rekha Gupta-led government to act swiftly.
Key Takeaways
- Allegations of 60,000 ghost beneficiaries in the women’s pension scheme.
- A call for a criminal investigation into the Rs 200 crore per annum scam.
- Evidence of irregularities in pension distribution.
- Concerns raised by Delhi BJP MLAs and protests organized.
- Investigation findings suggest significant fraud linked to the scheme.
New Delhi, July 7 (NationPress) The Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva has leveled serious allegations against the former Arvind Kejriwal administration, claiming the existence of nearly 60,000 ghost beneficiaries within the women’s pension scheme. He has called for a criminal probe into what he describes as a staggering Rs 200 crore per year ‘scam’.
“The citizens of Delhi are demanding that the Rekha Gupta-led government undertake a thorough investigation into this extensive scam affecting the women's pension scheme initiated by the Kejriwal government,” Sachdeva stated, referencing reports from various media outlets that have scrutinized the scheme.
“As uncovered by certain journalists, this scheme aimed at aiding helpless women has been marred by corruption. The people of Delhi expect the Rekha Gupta administration to initiate a high-level inquiry into these allegations,” he continued.
According to a directive from 2010, the Delhi government is obligated to provide a monthly pension of Rs 2,500 to women earning an annual income of less than Rs 1 lakh.
Last year, concerns about irregularities in pension distribution were voiced by some Delhi BJP MLAs and the media, leading to protests at the AAP office, Sachdeva mentioned. Following necessary approvals, an investigation was initiated in October 2024, but the investigation's progress was hindered until February, coinciding with the Assembly elections.
Recently, Sachdeva pointed out that the investigation has concluded, revealing substantial evidence of fraud.
Data indicates that 3,81,539 women were registered for this pension, but the inquiry uncovered discrepancies in two prominent categories, including over 60,000 fake registrations. Furthermore, 22,795 cases were identified with duplications or other inconsistencies.
Investigators found that in 60,573 instances, women were either untraceable at their registered addresses or lacked proof of residence, with numerous addresses deemed fraudulent.
Sachdeva emphasized that this situation points to an annual scam amounting to approximately Rs 200 crore attributed to these fake beneficiaries.
He has demanded that Kejriwal clarify where this Rs 200 crore per annum has gone—into the pockets of ministers, MLAs, party workers, officials, or the Aam Aadmi Party's election fund?
Point of View
It is crucial to adopt a balanced view on the allegations made by the Delhi BJP. While serious claims have emerged regarding the previous government's handling of the women's pension scheme, it's essential to await the findings of any formal investigations to ensure due process and accountability.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the women’s pension scheme?
The women’s pension scheme was implemented by the Delhi government to provide financial assistance of Rs 2,500 monthly to women with an annual income of less than Rs 1 lakh.
Who is demanding the investigation?
Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva is leading the call for a criminal investigation into the alleged scam.
How many fake beneficiaries were identified?
The investigation revealed that there are over 60,000 ghost beneficiaries linked to the scheme.
What amount is associated with the alleged scam?
The allegations suggest that the scam could amount to around Rs 200 crore per annum.
What actions have been taken regarding these allegations?
An investigation was initiated in October 2024, but faced delays until February. Recent disclosures indicate that the investigation has now concluded.
