ED Raids 21 Locations Across Jharkhand, Delhi, and West Bengal in Ayushman Bharat Health Scheme Scam Probe
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Overview
On April 4, 2025, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at 21 locations across Jharkhand, Delhi, and West Bengal. These actions were part of an investigation into alleged money laundering and systematic fraud within the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), a flagship health insurance scheme.
Key Allegations
Fabricated Claims
Hospitals and third-party administrators (TPAs) are accused of submitting fake treatment claims, billing for services never rendered, and admitting non-existent patients to siphon off government funds.
Manipulation of Empanelment
The investigation uncovered that certain hospitals were fraudulently empaneled under the scheme, enabling them to process illegitimate claims.
Kickbacks and Commissions
A network involving officials and consultants allegedly demanded commissions and kickbacks to facilitate the fraudulent activities.
Entities Under Investigation
- Jharkhand State Arogya Society (JSAS)
Officials and consultants linked to JSAS are under scrutiny for their roles in the alleged fraud. - Third-Party Administrators (TPAs)
TPAs such as MD India, Safeway, and Medi Assist are being investigated for their involvement in processing the fraudulent claims. - Political Connections
Premises associated with Om Prakash Singh, the private secretary to former Jharkhand Health Minister Banna Gupta, were among those searched, indicating potential political links to the scam.
Legal Framework
The raids were conducted under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), highlighting the financial dimensions of the alleged fraud.
Sources
- Times of India
- India Today
- The Indian Express
- The New Indian Express
- The Tribune India
- The Print
