HP Scholarship Scam: CBI Files Supplementary Chargesheets

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed two separate supplementary chargesheets as part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged scholarship scam in Himachal Pradesh.

These supplementary chargesheets have been filed before the Competent Court, naming ten accused individuals. The accused include private individuals such as directors of educational institutions, employees, and officials from the Directorate of Higher Education (DHE) within the Himachal Pradesh Government.

The case was first registered by the CBI on May 7, 2019, at the request of the Himachal Pradesh Government. The CBI took over the investigation, which was initially registered at the East Shimla Police Station. The case revolves around allegations of misappropriation of scholarship claims amounting to approximately Rs 266 crore.

It was further alleged that certain educational institutions had falsely claimed scholarships and fee reimbursements in the names of SC, ST, and OBC students in collaboration with officials from the Directorate of Higher Education within the Himachal Pradesh government. These actions resulted in the misappropriation of substantial government funds.

Approximately 28 institutions were identified as having claimed around 90 percent of the total scholarship amount. Earlier searches were conducted at around 30 locations, leading to the discovery of incriminating documents. A total of 19 accused individuals, including chairpersons, vice-chairpersons, directors, and employees of educational institutions, as well as bank officials and government officials from the Directorate of Higher Education, were arrested.

The CBI had previously filed eight chargesheets in the case, involving 16 institutions and 78 accused individuals, including institution owners, officials from the Directorate of Higher Education in Shimla, and bank officials.

The CBI continues its ongoing investigation into the matter. The agency emphasizes that the findings are based on its investigation and the evidence it has collected. It also reaffirms the principle of the accused being presumed innocent until proven guilty in a fair trial under Indian law.