Ghost Payroll Uncovered: UP Health Directorate Launches Major Probe into X-Ray Technician Salary Scandal

In a significant move to tackle corruption within its ranks, the Uttar Pradesh Health Directorate has initiated a wide-ranging investigation into a massive salary scam involving X-ray technicians. This probe comes after revelations that numerous individuals, including those who have retired or even passed away, continued to draw salaries, exposing a deep-seated financial irregularity.

The investigation, spearheaded by Dr.

Deepa Tyagi, Directorate General, Medical and Health, aims to unearth the full extent of the fraudulent activities. Dr. Tyagi has mandated all chief medical officers (CMOs) across the state to submit detailed reports by September 15, identifying any such discrepancies in their respective districts. This directive signals a serious intent to clean up the payroll system and hold accountable those responsible for the systemic failures that allowed this scam to flourish.

Initial findings have already brought to light startling numbers.

At least 10 retired X-ray technicians and 11 deceased employees were found to be still receiving salaries, primarily in districts like Lucknow, Sitapur, Raebareli, Hardoi, and Barabanki. These preliminary discoveries hint at a much larger network of illicit activity that has siphoned off public funds over an extended period.

The vigilance report from the health department was instrumental in exposing these glaring anomalies, prompting the directorate's swift action.

The scam is believed to be a collaborative effort, involving not only the health directorate but also the Uttar Pradesh medical and health services recruitment board.

Investigators are focusing on understanding how these individuals remained on the payroll despite their official status changing, and more crucially, who facilitated these continued payments. This suggests a potential nexus between employees, administrative staff, and possibly external entities, designed to exploit systemic loopholes for personal gain.

Dr.

Tyagi has reiterated a firm stance on the matter, emphasizing that no stone will be left unturned and strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty, irrespective of their position. This commitment underscores the seriousness with which the department is approaching the scandal, aiming to restore transparency and accountability within the health services.

The ongoing probe serves as a crucial step towards rectifying past errors and implementing more robust financial controls to prevent such sophisticated frauds in the future.