Photo Courtesy: nagalandpost
Kohima: Nagaland has launched a Special Investigation Team to root out widespread payroll fraud. Over 1,000 government workers are suspected of collecting double salaries or pensions. Deputy Chief Minister Y. Patton confirmed the probe on Thursday during a session of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly.
The rot reaches deep. Roughly 50 different government departments appear involved in the scheme. While the Home department oversees the investigation, the final tally of dishonest employees remains uncertain until the probe concludes. Advisor Kuzholuzo Nienu brought the issue to light after receiving reports that 600 to 700 personnel were gaming the system. Nienu termed the situation “shocking” and demanded the government terminate and prosecute anyone caught stealing taxpayer money.
Nienu pushed for a permanent ban on these offenders from ever holding government jobs again. He argued the current setup is full of holes and lacks basic safeguards. The government previously implemented the Personnel Information Management System to verify payments through e-Pay, but Nienu dismissed those existing measures as vague and unsatisfactory. He demanded an immediate overhaul of police recruitment policies to incorporate digital tools.
Nienu also revived his 2023 proposal for a strict transfer and posting policy. He wants staff to serve time in outlying areas before they can climb the ladder to directorate roles. Patton acknowledged the feedback and stated the SIT would define the true scope of the fraud once they finish their work.
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