West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced on Friday the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the alleged diversion of funds in the state’s ‘Taruner Swapna’ tablet scheme. She assured strict action against those involved, reaffirming the administration’s “rough and tough” stance on scams.
“A SIT has been formed for the tablet fund scam. The administration is handling it,” Banerjee said at Bagdogra airport, returning to Kolkata after her four-day visit to northern West Bengal. She also assured students awaiting funds under the scheme that they would “receive it soon.”
About the ‘Taruner Swapna’ Scheme
Launched in 2021 after Banerjee’s re-election, the initiative aims to provide ₹10,000 to students of classes 11 and 12 for purchasing tablets. Initially, it was limited to class 12 students, but this year it was extended to class 11 as well. School authorities were tasked with submitting student data to the education department.
The Fraud Uncovered
A police investigation revealed that funds for at least 1,350 students across 15 districts were siphoned off by hackers who targeted the Education Department’s online portal. Acting on the Chief Minister’s directives, Chief Secretary Manoj Pant convened a meeting with top officials, including Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar, to address the issue.
Arrests Made
Six individuals have been arrested in connection with the scam, with further investigations ongoing. Banerjee emphasized the administration’s effectiveness in addressing such issues, comparing the scam to similar incidents reported in states like Maharashtra and Rajasthan.
“Our administration is strong, rough, and tough. We caught this group quickly and will take all necessary action,” she stated.
Future Steps
Banerjee assured students that those affected would receive their funds soon, emphasizing her commitment to transparency and justice.
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