A big scam has been uncovered in Gujarat involving the MGNREGA scheme, a government program aimed at providing jobs to poor rural people. This MGNREGA scam, estimated between ₹71 and ₹75 crore, has shocked the state. The CID Crime branch arrested 10 people, including Jayrajsinh Bavaliya, the second son of Gujarat’s Minister of State for Rural Development, Kunvarji Bavaliya.
What Is MGNREGA?
MGNREGA, or the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, is a welfare scheme that guarantees at least 100 days of paid work for rural households. The goal is to reduce poverty and create rural infrastructure. But this scam shows how the system, meant to help the poo,r can be misused.
How Did the Scam Happen?
According to the CID, fake job cards were created to show fake workers who never actually worked under MGNREGA. These false records allowed the accused to withdraw large sums of money fraudulently. Most of the scam took place in the Surendranagar district, especially in areas like Chotila.
Officials, data entry operators, local contractors, and now a minister’s family member are involved. This scam has been going on for more than a year, and the money lost was supposed to pay for work done by poor villagers.
Minister’s Reaction and Investigation
Kunvarji Bavaliya said he is innocent and believes the law will take its own course. He distanced himself from the scam and said he fully supports the investigation. However, his son’s involvement has raised concerns about political influence and corruption.
The CID continues investigating and may arrest more people as the probe moves forward. Authorities have assured the public that they will recover the lost money and punish the guilty.
Why This Scam Matters
This case is a strong reminder of the challenges in protecting public funds and ensuring welfare programs reach the right people. The scam has hurt poor families who depend on MGNREGA for daily wages. It also exposes how those in power can misuse government schemes for personal gain.
We hope strict action will stop such scams in the future and bring justice to those affected.
