New Delhi | August 18, 2023 : The CAG has alleged that the Modi government’s seven flagship schemes, including Bharatmala, Hindustan Aeronautics, Ayushman Bharat, Pension Yojana, Dwarka Highway, and Ayodhya Development Project, have been marred by malpractices and financial irregularities. Of particular note is the revelation that a staggering 251 crores have been expended for the construction of just one kilometer of road. This revelation has ignited a firestorm of controversy and opposition voices have grown increasingly strident.
Leading the charge is the Aam Aadmi Party, which has dubbed this scandal as the biggest scam in recent memory. The extent of the financial discrepancies has raised eyebrows, prompting questions about accountability and oversight.
The CAG’s findings have sparked a cascade of reactions. Congress spokesperson Supriya Sreeneth expressed grave concerns about the magnitude of the scandal. She alleged the existence of an anti-national and anti-Modi group called “Kag” that is behind this plot. Sreeneth suggested that an international conspiracy might be at play and advocated for immediate intervention by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against CAG.
Critics are also raising pointed questions about the CAG’s role and methods. They demand to know how the reported cost of schemes, such as the Bharatmala project, could balloon from 15.37 crore to 32 crore rupees. The toll plaza audit has also come under scrutiny, as 132 crore rupees were reported missing from just five toll booths managed by the National Highways Authority.
The Ayushman Bharat Yojana, which aimed to provide healthcare to millions, has been tainted by fraudulent practices. Over seven and a half lakh beneficiaries were registered from a single mobile center, while claims were made on behalf of 88 thousand deceased individuals. The much-anticipated Ayodhya Development Project has also not been spared from controversy, as allegations of corruption in the Ram temple’s construction have come to light.
The CAG’s comments on these schemes further shed light on the severity of the situation:
- The Bharatmala project’s cost was allegedly inflated from 15.37 crore to 32 crore rupees.
- Five toll booths operated by the National Highways Authority were found to have a deficit of 132 crore rupees.
- Ayushman Bharat Yojana registered 7.5 lakh beneficiaries from a single mobile center.
- A staggering 88 thousand patients were allegedly claimed for under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana who had already passed away.
- The Ayodhya Development Project was marred by a scheme involving the purchase of land at a reduced price and its subsequent sale to the Rum Mandir Trust at a higher valuation.
- Swachh Bharat Yojana funds, meant for vulnerable groups, were reportedly diverted to erect advertising hoardings.
- Hindustan Aeronautics project suffered a loss of 154 crore due to the development of a defective engine.
- The cost of the Dwarka Expressway project saw an inexplicable escalation from 18 crores to 250 crores per kilometer.
As public outrage mounts and opposition parties demand accountability, the Modi government faces an uphill battle to regain public trust and restore the integrity of its schemes. The nation watches closely as this scandal unfolds, underscoring the critical importance of transparency and responsibility in governance.
