A team of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday carried out searches at multiple locations in Uttar Pradesh's Amethi district as part of its probe into an alleged scam involving more than ₹7 crore in the Basic Education Department, officials said.
According to sources, the CBI team arrived in Amethi early in the day and conducted raids at several premises, including locations in Lothwaria village, Pure Yaduram Pandey's Purwa area, the finance and accounts office, and other sites linked to the case.
The investigation relates to alleged irregularities in the disbursement of arrears under the Basic Education Department. The probe was initiated following directions from the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court, which ordered the CBI to investigate the matter.
Amethi District Magistrate Sanjay Chauhan said the case pertains to arrears payments intended for teachers and other eligible beneficiaries. According to the allegations, the funds were diverted and transferred into private bank accounts instead of being credited to the rightful recipients.
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“After the issue came to light, a detailed inquiry was conducted. Based on the findings and evidence gathered during the investigation, an FIR was lodged and instructions were issued to recover the misappropriated amount from those held responsible,” Chauhan said. He further stated that the accused individuals subsequently challenged the proceedings by filing a petition before the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court.
“The high court passed two separate orders. One directed that the investigation be handed over to the CBI, while the other instructed the agency to submit a status report before the court. Following these directions, the CBI has commenced its investigation in Amethi,” the district magistrate said.
The searches carried out on Wednesday are part of the agency's efforts to gather evidence and verify financial transactions linked to the alleged fraud.
When asked whether the CBI had made any arrests in connection with the case so far, Chauhan said he did not have any information regarding such action at this stage.
The investigation is ongoing, and officials expect further developments as the agency examines documents, financial records and other evidence related to the alleged embezzlement of government funds meant for education sector beneficiaries.
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