Sikkim Vigilance Police conducted search operations on offices in and around Gangtok this week linked to the implementation of the Sikkim Aama Sashaktikaran Yojana (Women & Child Department) and the House Upgradation Scheme (Rural Development Department), seizing records for detailed examination, a police press release on Friday (April 24, 2026) said. The raids form part of an ongoing probe into alleged large-scale manipulation of beneficiary lists and misappropriation of scheme funds intended for non-working mothers and economically vulnerable families.
The vigilance unit had earlier registered a regular case against unknown public servants and others based on source information alleging fraud by certain officials. Investigators say bona fide beneficiaries were deprived of legitimate benefits and the state exchequer suffered wrongful loss as a result of these alleged activities.
So far, the investigation has estimated a loss of about Rs. 19 lakh, and authorities warn the figure may rise as examinations continue. Records and documents recovered in the searches are being scrutinized to establish the full extent of irregularities and trace the flow of funds.
Launched by the Sikkim government in 2024, the Aama Sashaktikaran Yojana and the House Upgradation Scheme were designed to provide financial assistance to vulnerable groups — including non-working mothers and low-income families needing help with housing improvements. Implementation relied on local administrative officials who were responsible for preparing beneficiary lists, verifying eligibility, issuing account-payee cheques and following government standard operating procedures.
The Vigilance Police allege that some officials, instead of disbursing funds to eligible beneficiaries, dishonestly released money to ineligible persons, including certain government employees. Records were reportedly manipulated and irregularities concealed to evade detection; a portion of the funds is suspected to have been siphoned off for personal use. Investigators say there are indications the alleged violations may have been carried out at the instance of senior officials involved in scheme administration.
Further inquiry is underway and the vigilance agency said arrests of those found responsible for siphoning government funds are expected in the coming days. The probe’s outcome will determine accountability and any steps to restore benefits to deprived beneficiaries and recover misappropriated sums.
Original Source: https://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/vigilance-police-investigates-irregularities-in-implementation-of-aama-yojana-and-house-upgradation-scheme
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