Central team probes alleged MGNREGA fraud in Punjab’s rural jobs scheme

Fake job cards and misused funds spark a high-stakes inquiry. Will Punjab’s rural workers finally get justice—and their due wages?

, and Administrator

2025 November 28 . 7:30 PM

1 min read

In this picture I can see a train on the railway track, there are two persons inside the train and... — In this picture I can see a train on the railway track, there are two persons inside the train and there is graffiti on the train.

Central team probes alleged MGNREGA fraud in Punjab’s rural jobs scheme

A central investigation team will examine alleged fraud in Punjab’s MGNREGA scheme. Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced the probe after receiving complaints about fake job cards and irregularities. The move follows accusations against the state’s handling of the rural employment program.

Chouhan confirmed that the central government had formed a team to look into the claims. Reports suggested contractors were carrying out work meant for needy laborers under the scheme. The Punjab government had already set up its own investigation into the alleged fake employment records.

The minister also addressed accusations from Punjab’s AAP government regarding delayed flood-relief funds. He dismissed claims that Rs 1,600 crore had been withheld, stating that Rs 480 crore had already been released. Further funds would continue to flow, he added.

In a separate development, the state government approved the construction of 76,000 houses for the poor. These will be built under the PM Awas Yojana, a central housing scheme for low-income families.

The central team’s findings will determine whether punishment is issued to those responsible for any wrongdoing. Justice for affected workers remains a priority. Meanwhile, flood-relief funds and housing projects in Punjab are progressing as planned.