Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, May 23: A major financial scam has rattled Goa’s Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) after nearly Rs 5 cr meant for primary education was fraudulently withdrawn from government accounts, raising serious concerns over official oversight.

The fraud came to light after a vigilant staff member at a private bank in West Bengal flagged unusual transactions involving large cheque clearances and deposits linked to the SSA Goa account, reportedly routed through a personal account. By the time SSA officials were informed, the funds had already been siphoned off.

Police have arrested a garment businessman from West Bengal in connection with the case. During interrogation, he claimed his account was misused by someone who promised him a business loan. “The person took access to my account and deposited cheques bearing the name ‘SSA Goa’ without my full knowledge,” he reportedly told police.

Investigations revealed that the fraudster had managed to access the SSA’s nationalized bank account and even altered the registered mobile number to intercept all transaction alerts.

Police are now on the hunt for the main accused, believed to be the mastermind behind the operation. Authorities are probing possible lapses or complicity by officials, as questions grow over how such a large sum could be transferred without timely detection.