An investigation in Darbhanga has revealed that several employees linked to the education department were shown on paper as being on deputation and were paid salaries for extended periods despite not being posted at the indicated locations and without valid deployment orders, while government funds continued to be withdrawn regularly.
According to sources, serious irregularities were found in the deputation orders on the basis of which salary payments were made. In several cases, the orders lacked signatures or approval from the competent authority, while in some files records related to the deputation period, assigned duties, and attendance were completely missing. Despite these deficiencies, salary bills were prepared and approved by the concerned branches, indicating that payments were cleared without thorough verification of the process.
Following the disclosure, the education department has initiated an internal inquiry, and a file-by-file review is underway of all deputation orders issued over the past several years along with the corresponding salary payments. Preliminary scrutiny has raised the possibility that the matter may extend beyond negligence and could involve planned irregularities and collusion.
Officials said that after completion of the investigation, strict departmental action will be taken against employees and officials found responsible. Legal action may also be initiated if required. The process to recover salaries withdrawn through fraudulent means will also be started to compensate for losses to the government exchequer.
The case has raised questions about oversight mechanisms, transparency, and accountability within the education department in Darbhanga.
