ACB Uncovers Massive Scholarship Fraud in Jammu and Kashmir

The Anti-Corruption Bureau has filed a case against officials and private individuals for alleged fund misappropriation under the post-matric scholarship scheme in Jammu and Kashmir, involving Rs 1.66 crore. Investigations indicate funds were improperly disbursed to unaccredited institutes between 2014 and 2018.

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has initiated formal proceedings against several officials and private individuals over allegations of financial misconduct under the post-matric scholarship scheme in Jammu and Kashmir. This action follows an investigation that unveiled substantial irregularities in the distribution of scholarship funds meant for Scheduled Tribe (ST) students.

As detailed in the First Information Report (FIR), the former director of tribal affairs, Mohammad Sharief Choudhary, along with assistants and private parties associated with educational institutes, are facing charges under the Jammu and Kashmir Prevention of Corruption Act. Accusations include the misuse of funds assigned for the educational advancement of ST students.

The inquiry uncovered that from 2014 to 2018, around Rs 1.66 crore was wrongfully given to unrecognized institutes offering unapproved courses. These institutions failed to meet accreditation standards and issued degrees lacking value, pointing to a deliberate circumvention of scheme guidelines by the implicated parties.