Fresh revelations have emerged in the investigation into the widely discussed labour card scam in Haryana’s Panipat district. Investigators probing the alleged ₹10 crore fraud linked to the Haryana Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (HBOCWWB) claim to have uncovered evidence of forged documents, fake official seals and fabricated certificates used to obtain government benefits. According to the investigation, a network involving departmental personnel, intermediaries and other associates allegedly worked together to misuse welfare schemes and divert public funds.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) examining the case has alleged that the fraud was carried out on a large scale during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Investigators claim that between January 1 and March 31, 2020, a substantial number of labour cards were issued to individuals who were allegedly not genuine construction workers. These labour cards were then reportedly used to obtain benefits under various government welfare programmes.
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According to investigators, the fraudulent labour cards enabled beneficiaries to claim financial assistance under 22 different welfare schemes. These included marriage assistance, Kanyadan benefits, educational support, death assistance and several other social welfare programmes. Authorities allege that crores of rupees were withdrawn from government funds through these claims and diverted to ineligible beneficiaries.
The investigation has further revealed that the accused allegedly created forged seals bearing the names of village secretaries, revenue officials, doctors and contractors in order to make the documents appear authentic. Scanned and fabricated signatures were reportedly used on application forms and supporting records. Investigators say several documents recovered during the probe contain forged endorsements and fabricated official certifications.
The SIT also discovered a number of suspicious marriage certificates during the verification process. According to officials, several of these certificates were found to be fake when compared with official records. Investigators further allege that forged birth certificates, death certificates and employment-related documents were created to establish eligibility for various welfare schemes. Authorities believe the systematic use of such fabricated records helped the alleged fraud remain undetected for an extended period.
Among the key accused in the case is Narendra Kumar Singhal, a former contractual Assistant Welfare Officer, who was recently arrested by the investigating agency. Officials say his interrogation has yielded significant information regarding the functioning of the alleged network. Investigators claim that statements made during questioning have also pointed towards the possible involvement of other individuals connected with the department, prompting an expansion of the inquiry.
During interrogation, the accused allegedly disclosed that certain important documents linked to the scam had been concealed in the Vikaspuri area of Delhi. The SIT is now planning further action to recover these records. According to investigators, recovery of approximately ₹12.40 lakh remains pending in the case. Authorities are also seeking to recover a white WagonR car allegedly linked to the investigation and believed to be relevant to the financial trail being examined.
The case originated after a complaint was filed by an advocate, following which multiple levels of verification were conducted. When irregularities were reportedly confirmed through physical verification exercises and departmental reviews, the matter gained seriousness. Subsequently, following directions from the Punjab and Haryana High Court, a criminal case was registered under provisions relating to cheating, forgery, criminal breach of trust and anti-corruption laws.
Following the completion of police remand, Narendra Kumar Singhal was produced before a court and remanded to 14 days of judicial custody. Investigators have submitted the information gathered during questioning to the court. The SIT has maintained that the probe remains ongoing and that the role of additional suspects and beneficiaries linked to the alleged labour card scam may emerge as the investigation progresses.
