Taking a firm stand against the misuse of government welfare schemes, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed officials to identify and take strict action against individuals who have fraudulently claimed benefits using fake documents.
Following his instructions, two FIRs have been registered—one at Kotwali Nagar and another at Thana Rajpur police stations in Dehradun. These actions come after complaints filed by the District Supply Officer and the Ayushman Bharat Department with the Senior Superintendent of Police, Dehradun.
Investigations found that several individuals with annual incomes above ₹5 lakh had illegally obtained ration cards meant for economically weaker sections. These fake ration cards were then used to generate Ayushman Bharat cards, allowing them to claim subsidised health benefits under the scheme.
The Supply Department, upon verification, discovered that many of these ration cards were fraudulent. This prompted swift legal action. CM Dhami has made it clear that strict legal steps will be taken against anyone found misusing public welfare schemes, adding that no ineligible person will be spared.
Earlier on Saturday, Chief Minister Dhami flagged off the first group of pilgrims for the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Tanakpur, officially marking the start of this year's journey. The devotees had arrived in Tanakpur the night before and were welcomed personally by Dhami at the Tourist Rest House.
Interacting with the pilgrims, CM Dhami shared his best wishes and assured them of all necessary support for a safe and smooth journey. "The group for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has moved forward from its main stop, Tanakpur. The group of devotees arrived here last night... All arrangements have been made to ensure the safety of the pilgrims, a smooth journey, and no inconveniences,” he further said.
He acknowledged the tough terrain and unpredictable weather along the route, especially the risk of landslides. However, he reassured that all precautionary measures and support systems are in place through the state government and its agencies. "This is an extremely challenging journey,... and routes prone to landslides, but despite that, all facilities have been provided by our state corporation... The atmosphere is very enthusiastic. All the pilgrims are full of zeal... I wish everyone a successful journey," Dhami further added.
Meanwhile, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Sikkim also resumed this year after a five-year gap. On June 20, the first batch of 33 pilgrims, accompanied by two nodal officers and a doctor from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), was flagged off from Nathula Pass by Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur. The event marks a meaningful step in cultural and spiritual continuity, as well as international cooperation between India and China.
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