MGNREGA scam alleged in Bolangir: Funds withdrawn in name of deceased worker

Allegations of large-scale irregularities in the implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) have surfaced in Odisha’s Bolangir district, with funds allegedly siphoned off using fake labour and vendor records. Serious discrepancies were reported from the Bangomunda block on Monday, raising concerns over monitoring and accountability at the grassroots level.

According to available records, MGNREGA funds were allegedly withdrawn in the name of a deceased individual in the Chandotara panchayat under the Bangomunda block. Documents show that Mangalu Bachha, who died on January 30, 2020, was listed in muster rolls as having worked under the employment scheme in June 2020. Official records further indicate that thousands of rupees were withdrawn in his name several months after his death.

Fake Labour, Vendor Entries Alleged

Apart from this case, allegations have emerged that in several areas of the Bolangir district, MGNREGA payments were withdrawn using the names of fake labourers. In other instances, funds were allegedly misappropriated through fabricated vendor entries, pointing to a wider pattern of irregularities in the execution of the rural employment programme.

Complaint Submitted to District Collector

The present sarpanch of Chandotara panchayat, Jitendra Bachha, reportedly became aware of the alleged irregularities nearly five years later. He has submitted a written complaint along with supporting documents to the Bolangir District Collector, demanding a thorough inquiry and appropriate action.

Allegations have also been levelled against Gaon Sathi Gauri Sahu and her husband Ghasiram Sahu, accusing them of jointly preparing fake muster rolls and facilitating the alleged misappropriation of MGNREGA funds. Despite the complaint, no action has reportedly been taken against the accused so far.

Migration Concerns and Government Initiatives

Bangomunda is among the blocks witnessing large-scale migration, with many residents leaving the district in search of employment. Mangalu Bachha is reportedly one of several individuals whose names were allegedly misused in official records, even as genuine job seekers remained without work.

During a recent visit to Bolangir, the Odisha Panchayati Raj Minister undertook door-to-door interactions to identify families in need of employment. The exercise reportedly revealed that several eligible beneficiaries either lacked job cards or had migrated despite possessing them due to the non-availability of work locally. The government has since formed task forces to curb migration and ensure employment at the village level.

However, despite these measures, allegations suggest that deserving beneficiaries continue to be deprived of work, while MGNREGA funds are allegedly being withdrawn using fake accounts and the names of deceased workers.