Bhopal: A shocking case of administrative malpractice has surfaced in Saunsar, Madhya Pradesh, where a landowner with 17 acres of fertile land was falsely classified as a worker to avail benefits under the Sambal Scheme. Following the revelation, the Labour Secretary has directed strict action against the negligent officials involved.
‘Rich Worker’ Scandal
Under the Sambal Scheme, only those with less than 1 hectare (≈2.5 acres) of land are eligible for government assistance. However, Ramshankar Gavnekar, a resident of Saunsar, managed to register as a landless worker despite owning 17 acres. The deception escalated when he lodged a complaint on the CM Helpline to claim ₹2 lakh in government aid following the death of Sanju Gavnekar, assuming pressure tactics would force the administration to release funds.
Collusion and Administrative Negligence
Investigations revealed that Ramshankar not only self-declared false information, but the verification officers also erroneously approved his eligibility without proper scrutiny. The situation worsened when the Saunsar CEO labeled the applicant ineligible within 15 days, yet the files remained unattended and the complaint unresolved, reflecting systemic lapses.
Labour Department Steps In
The Labour Secretary termed the negligence as corruption and has instructed immediate action against all officials who facilitated the fraud. Additionally, Ramshankar Gavnekar has been issued a show-cause notice. The department is also conducting a wider audit to identify any other wealthy applicants misusing the system in the district.
This incident has raised serious concerns about administrative oversight and the integrity of government welfare schemes in Madhya Pradesh.
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