Has the Maha govt received 719 complaints about fake disability certificates?
Synopsis
The Maharashtra government faces serious allegations as it receives 719 complaints regarding government employees allegedly using fake disability certificates. With mandatory verification now in place, the Divyang Welfare Minister promises strict actions against offenders. Explore the implications of these developments on welfare schemes.
Key Takeaways
Maharashtra government faces 719 complaints of fake disability certificates.
Verification of certificates is now mandatory .
Strict actions will be taken against violators.
Only disabilities of 40% or more qualify for benefits.
SOPs have been issued to protect Divyang individuals.
Nagpur, Dec 9 (NationPress) The government of Maharashtra has been alerted to 719 complaints against its employees regarding the alleged use of fraudulent disability certificates to gain advantages from various welfare programs. This revelation was made by Divyang Welfare Minister Atul Save during a session in the Assembly on Tuesday.
Minister Save highlighted that the verification of disability certificates is now compulsory following instructions from both the central government and the state's Divyang Welfare Department.
He promised that strict measures would be enforced wherever discrepancies are found. The Minister was addressing inquiries posed by NCP (SP) MLA Bapu Pathare in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly.
According to government regulations, any employee discovered using a fraudulent certificate or possessing a certificate indicating a disability of less than 40 percent will face consequences under Section 11 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, alongside disciplinary actions.
A government resolution issued on October 9, 2025, mandated all departments to finalize the verification process for disability certificates and present comprehensive reports by January 8, 2026.
“To date, reports of fake UDID (Unique Disability ID) certificates have been noted from 719 employees, and the relevant departments have been directed to verify these claims and take necessary actions as per established regulations,” Minister Save stated.
Only individuals with recognized disabilities of 40 percent or more qualify for benefits such as job reservations, promotions, and additional government schemes, he remarked.
Moreover, the Minister indicated that the government has recently published Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) designed to bolster protections for Divyang individuals against exploitation, abuse, and violence.
The SOPs empower both District and Sub-Divisional Magistrates to act promptly to ensure swift and effective responses in such cases, adhering to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Point of View
It's crucial to remain impartial while reporting on significant issues. The allegations against government employees regarding the misuse of disability certificates raise concerns about integrity and accountability within welfare systems. It's imperative to ensure that legitimate beneficiaries are protected while swift actions are taken against fraudulent practices.
NationPress
8 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the consequences for using a fake disability certificate?
Employees found using fake certificates or those indicating less than 40% disability may face actions under Section 11 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, as well as disciplinary proceedings.
How many complaints have been received regarding fraudulent disability certificates?
The Maharashtra government has received complaints against 719 employees concerning the alleged use of fake disability certificates.
What measures are being taken to verify disability certificates?
Verification of disability certificates has been made mandatory, and all departments are required to submit detailed reports by January 8, 2026.
Who is eligible for government benefits related to disability?
Only individuals with benchmark disabilities of 40% or above are eligible for benefits such as job reservations and other government schemes.
What new procedures have been issued to protect differently-abled individuals?
The government has issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to enhance protections for Divyang persons against exploitation, abuse, and violence.
