CAG flags TMC relief scam: Identical photos, Rs 18.07 crore in duplicates

Why in news

The CAG flagged a relief scam in West Bengal where Rs 18.07 crore was paid in duplicate transactions and ineligible beneficiaries received inflated grants during Cyclone Amphan relief.

Background

The CAG audit revealed that 71% of relief funds were parked in commercial bank accounts before distribution. Irregularities included identical photos for multiple claims and grants awarded based on local leader recommendations without physical inspections.

Facts for Prelims

• BodyCAG: A constitutional body established under Article 148 of the Indian Constitution.
• FactThe audit identified duplicate transactions worth Rs 18.07 crore in the Cyclone Amphan relief distribution.
• FactNearly 71% of funds were found to be parked in commercial bank accounts before being disbursed.

For Mains

Q. Discuss the role of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) in ensuring transparency and accountability in the distribution of disaster relief funds.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• Role of CAG as a watchdog
• Issues of leakages in DBT
• Need for third-party verification
• Way forward: Digitization of beneficiary lists

Keywords: Accountability · Transparency · Audit irregularities · Leakage · Public Finance

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