In a startling disclosure, it has been revealed that in 2016, Haryana government schools had a staggering 400,000 fake students enrolled. This revelation has prompted a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe to uncover the extent of the fraud and bring those responsible to justice.
The scandal was unearthed during a student data verification process, exposing a massive discrepancy. Official records showed 22 lakh students enrolled in government schools, but only 18 lakh attended classes. This discrepancy pointed to the existence of 400,000 fictitious students.
The fake enrollments were allegedly orchestrated to siphon off benefits meant for genuine students from disadvantaged and economically weaker sections of society. These benefits included crucial schemes such as mid-day meals intended to improve the nutritional status of school-age children and encourage regular attendance.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court handed over the case to the CBI in 2019, expressing its dismay at the slow pace of the investigation and demanding a thorough probe. The court's intervention came after initial inquiries failed to yield substantial progress. The CBI has now taken charge of the investigation, aiming to identify the perpetrators behind this extensive educational fraud.
The revelation of such a large-scale fraud has severe implications for the educational system in Haryana. It highlights the need for stricter monitoring and verification mechanisms to ensure that benefits reach the intended recipients. The ongoing CBI investigation is expected to bring more clarity and accountability, potentially leading to reforms in the enrollment process and the administration of educational benefits.
The discovery of 400,000 fake students in Haryana government schools is a shocking revelation that underscores the need for vigilance and transparency in the educational system. As the CBI conducts its thorough investigation, it will focus on uncovering the full extent of the fraud and implementing measures to prevent such occurrences. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of integrity in administering educational programs and protecting resources meant for genuine beneficiaries.