Shimla, Mar 29
Following an extensive investigation, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has concluded its inquiry into the HP Scholarship scam, unveiling chargesheets against 20 institutions and 105 individuals. A spokesperson from the CBI informed that among those implicated are the proprietors of the identified institutions, officials from the Directorate of Higher Education in Shimla, banking personnel, and other private individuals.
Initiated in 2019, the case revolves around alleged fraudulent claims amounting to approximately Rs. 181 crores between 2013 and 2017. The instant case on 07/05/2019 against unknown persons was taken over by the Central agency on the request of Himachal Pradesh Government and had taken over the investigation of FIR No.0133 dated 16th November, 2018, earlier registered at Police Station East Shimla.
Throughout the investigation, closely monitored by the High Court of Himachal Pradesh, the CBI has diligently pursued leads, submitting periodic status reports to the court, they stated.
At its core, the case highlights the misappropriation of scholarships and fee reimbursements earmarked for students hailing from reserved categories, underscoring the imperative for robust oversight and accountability mechanisms in the distribution of educational funds. The said educational Institutions had claimed false scholarships and fee reimbursements under the garb of SC,ST,OBC students from the Education Department of Himachal Pradesh Government in conspiracy or in connivence with the concerned officials of the Directorate of Higher Education, Govt. of Himachal Pradesh and misappropriated huge funds of the Government.
During the course of the investigation, 19 individuals, including employees of the Directorate of Higher Education, Shimla, institution chairpersons, directors, employees, and banking officials, were detained, claimed the CBI spokesperson.
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