The Special Investigation Team (SIT) in Uttar Pradesh has unearthed a major irregularity involving fake beneficiaries enrolled under the state’s widow pension scheme. According to the report, around 25 women—who were neither widowed nor eligible—continued to receive government pension benefits for years. The findings have raised serious concerns regarding verification processes and administrative oversight within the welfare system.
SIT Flags Multiple Fake Beneficiaries
The investigation began after local complaints indicated that several ineligible individuals were still drawing monthly pensions meant exclusively for widows. When the SIT carried out cross-verification, it was revealed that many listed beneficiaries were either remarried, living with their husbands, or had provided falsified documents to qualify for the scheme.
Officials also reviewed bank transactions and beneficiary records, which exposed inconsistencies in identity proofs and marital status declarations. The SIT has submitted its preliminary findings to higher authorities for further action.
Financial Irregularities Under Scrutiny
The alleged misuse is estimated to involve funds disbursed over several years. The welfare department is now examining how these names were added to the pension rolls and whether any officials played a role in facilitating the fraudulent entries. Strict action is expected against individuals found responsible for approving or verifying forged applications.
Government to Strengthen Verification System
Following the discovery, the state government is planning to implement a stronger digital verification mechanism, ensuring that only eligible widows receive benefits. Regular audits and Aadhaar-linked verification checks are likely to become mandatory to prevent future fraud.
Authorities have also indicated that beneficiaries who received pensions illegally may be required to return the amount and could face legal proceedings. The SIT investigation is still underway and additional cases may surface during the review of district-level records.
More Investigations Expected
The findings highlight the urgent need for transparent welfare governance. As the probe continues, the SIT is expected to expand the investigation to neighboring districts to identify similar instances of pension misuse.
