A major fraud case under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) has come to light, implicating multiple individuals, including relatives of Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami.
According to officials, a preliminary investigation confirmed that fraudulent wage payments were made to several people who did not perform any work under the scheme.
District Magistrate (DM) Nidhi Gupta Vats announced that immediate action has been taken, including the suspension of those involved, the initiation of a police case, and departmental proceedings under the Panchayati Raj Act.
Key Individuals Involved and Fraudulent Transactions
Authorities revealed that 18 individuals had received wages without doing any labour. Among them are Mohammed Shami’s sister, Shabina, her husband Ghaznavi, and her brothers-in-law Aamir Suhail, Nasruddin, and Shekhu.
Additionally, the names of the village head, Gule Ayesha, and her family members have surfaced in connection with the scandal. Gule Ayesha, the mother-in-law of Shami’s sister, is currently serving as the Gram Pradhan and is suspected of playing a central role in the fraudulent scheme.
The fake job entries were recorded in January 2021, and the implicated individuals received wages directly in their bank accounts until the financial year 2024-25. The DM has ordered the recovery of these misappropriated funds and the freezing of the Gram Pradhan’s bank accounts to prevent further misuse.
Investigation and Future Actions
The fraud was exposed after media reports prompted authorities to conduct an inquiry. Initial findings suggest the involvement of local officials, including the then Village Development Officer (VDO), Assistant Programme Officer (APO), an operator, the Gram Pradhan, and individuals close to her.
The investigation is ongoing, and further legal and administrative actions are expected against those responsible. Authorities are determined to ensure accountability and recover the stolen funds. The case highlights the challenges in monitoring welfare schemes and emphasizes the need for stricter oversight to prevent such fraudulent activities in the future.
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