Sangrur School Row: Fake Students, Attendance Records Spark Scholarship Fund Allegations

Allegations of irregularities in schools in Punjab’s Sangrur district have reached the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC), with complaints alleging fake student enrolments, fabricated attendance records and possible misuse of funds intended for Scheduled Caste students.

According to the complaints and allegations raised by political leaders, school records may have been used to claim scholarships, food allocations and grants in the names of students who were either not enrolled or had already left the institutions. The complainants have sought an investigation and action against anyone found responsible for alleged misuse of government funds.

NCSC Chairman Kishor Makwana confirmed that the commission had received complaints related to the matter. He said the commission was taking the allegations seriously and indicated that strict action could follow if wrongdoing is established.

The issue has triggered political attacks on the AAP government in Punjab. BJP leader Tarun Chugh alleged that claims of an “education revolution” in the state had been undermined by what he described as a major financial irregularity in Sangrur. He demanded immediate intervention by the NCSC and a time-bound, impartial inquiry.

Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia also alleged that records involving students who had left school were being used to claim scholarships, food funds and grants. He said such practices, if established, could deprive eligible SC students of benefits intended for them.

The allegations come as the Bhagwant Mann-led government faces scrutiny over the functioning of Punjab’s education system and the utilisation of welfare funds.

The complaints could lead to further action by the NCSC, depending on the commission’s assessment and any subsequent inquiry. However, the allegations have not yet been independently established. Any formal investigation will be crucial in determining whether irregularities occurred, the scale of any alleged financial misuse and responsibility for it.