Shahjahanpur: The district health department has once again come under scrutiny after a major fraud involving fake disability certificates surfaced. Following earlier allegations of large-scale irregularities and a medical reimbursement scam, the latest probe has revealed that employees in the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) office allegedly issued disability certificates to 14 individuals by bypassing mandatory procedures. Taking serious note of the findings, the District Magistrate has ordered the registration of FIRs against all those involved.
Irregularities Surface in Certification Process
The case traces back to Majhara Badhau village in the Mirzapur area, where a complaint by Santram Kashyap triggered an official inquiry. Initial findings flagged several certificates as suspicious, prompting a detailed investigation. It was then discovered that due process was not followed in issuing these certificates. Most notably, none of the 14 cases had approval from a medical board, which is an essential requirement for granting disability certification.
The report submitted by the Chief Medical Officer further revealed that no official records of these certificates were available in the office. This strongly indicates deliberate manipulation and concealment of the process. Investigators found that clerical staff, in coordination with data entry operators, allegedly tampered with the system and issued certificates without valid authorization.
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Misuse of Welfare Benefits
According to sources, these forged disability certificates were used to avail benefits under various government welfare schemes. Disability certification entitles beneficiaries to financial assistance, reservation benefits, and other state-supported benefits. Such fraudulent practices not only undermine governance but also deprive genuinely eligible individuals of their rightful support.
Action Ordered and Probe Expands
Given the seriousness of the case, the District Magistrate has ordered immediate cancellation of all fake certificates. Directions have also been issued to file FIRs against the DEIC manager, concerned clerks, and data entry operators. Authorities have made it clear that provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act will also be invoked, and no accused will be spared.
In addition, instructions have been given to terminate the services of contractual and outsourced staff found involved, while regular employees may face suspension and departmental action. Officials have been directed to submit a detailed action report within a week. The administration has also ordered that if any government benefits were availed using these fake certificates, they must be withdrawn and the amounts recovered from the beneficiaries.
Meanwhile, questions are being raised over the lack of progress in a separate medical reimbursement scam already under investigation in the district. Although officials have reportedly sent communication recommending legal action, no FIR has been registered so far despite a fixed timeline, raising concerns over delays and procedural lapses.
Authorities believe the disability certificate scam is still in its early stages of investigation, and more revelations may emerge. As the probe expands, the involvement of additional individuals and possibly more cases is likely to come to light. For now, the administration has emphasized that ensuring transparency and accountability remains a top priority, and strict action will be taken against all those found guilty.
