Widespread Pension Fraud Uncovered in Odisha's Jajpur District

In Odisha's Jajpur district, 894 individuals have fraudulently claimed benefits under an old-age pension scheme using fake documents. Authorities have ordered them to return the funds. The scam was detected in Binjharpur block, prompting a police probe and suspensions in the district administration.

Authorities in Odisha's Jajpur district have uncovered a significant fraud involving 894 individuals who illicitly claimed benefits from an old-age pension scheme. These beneficiaries reportedly used fake documents to secure the financial aid, which was uncovered in the Binjharpur block, revealed officials on Sunday.

The revelation prompted swift action from the administration, leading to an investigation across at least 29 gram panchayats. According to Binjharpur BDO Hitanshu Samal, notices have been served to the ineligible recipients, demanding the return of the misappropriated pension funds obtained between September 2023 to September 2024.

Failure to return the money could result in legal action, officials warned. The discovery follows a complaint lodged last year regarding irregularities totaling Rs 90 lakh, leading to a police investigation and suspension of the Block Social Security Officer, amid wider administrative scrutiny.