New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has uncovered a major scam involving fake Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) cards. During nationwide searches in August, the agency seized ₹88 lakh in cash, incriminating documents, and digital devices as evidence.
₹88 Lakh Seized During Raids
The ED’s search operations led to the confiscation of approximately ₹88 lakh in cash alongside crucial evidence, including documents and digital devices.
20 Locations Raided
The investigation involved raids at 20 locations, including seven hospitals and their key management personnel, to probe the alleged generation of fake Ayushman Bharat cards.
Hospitals Under Investigation
Hospitals targeted during the raids included Shree Banke Bihari Hospital, Fortis Hospital Himachal Healthcare Private Limited, City Super Speciality Hospital, Shri Balaji Hospital, Shri Harihar Hospital, Sood Nursing Home, and Neelkanth Hospital. These institutions were searched for evidence related to money laundering.
Focus on Delhi, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh
Raids were conducted in Delhi, Chandigarh, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh, targeting institutions suspected of participating in fraudulent activities.
Forgery Cases in Assam
The ED has also identified three cases of forged claims by hospitals empanelled under AB-PMJAY in Assam, further expanding the scope of the investigation.
Ayushman Bharat Milestones
The Centre’s flagship health insurance scheme, Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, has reached a significant milestone, generating over 26 crore Ayushman cards nationwide. Uttar Pradesh leads with four crore cards, followed by Madhya Pradesh (3.69 crore) and Chhattisgarh (2.04 crore).
Concerns Over Scheme Integrity
The scam has raised questions about the integrity of the health insurance program, highlighting the need for stricter monitoring and enforcement to prevent fraudulent activities.
