Odisha SHG Scandal: Elderly Women Arrested for Swindling Cow Subsidy Funds in Jagatsinghpur

Shocking Arrest in Jagatsinghpur

In a surprising turn of events, the Vigilance Department has arrested eight elderly women, all above 70 years old and members of a self-help group, for allegedly misappropriating subsidies under a livestock development scheme. The incident, reported from Kuruki area under Naugaon police station in Jagatsinghpur district, has raised serious questions about the security and accountability of welfare schemes at the grassroots level.

The Role of Saraswati Self Help Group

The controversy centres around Saraswati Self Help Group, founded in 2002 with 20 women to promote economic self-reliance. After some members dropped out, 17 remained active. To start a dairy project, the group borrowed ₹4.9 lakh under the Swarna Jayanti Swarozgar Yojana, of which ₹2.5 lakh was government subsidy meant to ease financial burden.

Allegations of Fraud and Misuse

Instead of investing in cows as planned, the president and secretary of the SHG allegedly siphoned off the subsidy amount. Reports suggest the remaining money was distributed among 10 members, leaving seven women with nothing. Feeling cheated, the excluded members filed a complaint with the Vigilance Department. One of them said, “It was supposed to be our lifeline, but it turned into a nightmare of greed.”

Vigilance Probe and Arrests

Following the complaint, Vigilance officials launched an inquiry that revealed no cows had been purchased and the subsidy was misused. Cases were filed under the Prevention of Corruption Act and relevant sections of the IPC. Although chargesheets were submitted earlier, the accused evaded arrest for nearly 18 months. Recently, in a dramatic late-night raid, the officials finally arrested the eight women. Considering their advanced age, they were granted bail on compassionate grounds.

Community Backlash and Concerns

The arrests have sparked controversy in Kuruki village, with residents debating the balance between collective empowerment and individual misuse. Local activists say such fraud undermines women’s empowerment programmes in rural Odisha. “This is not just about stolen money; it’s about eroding trust in schemes meant to uplift women,” one activist remarked.

Lessons and Way Forward

Experts argue that the case highlights the urgent need for digital monitoring and transparent fund management in welfare programmes. Without stronger accountability systems, the most vulnerable beneficiaries remain at risk of exploitation. The incident serves as a stark reminder that vigilance—both administrative and moral—is essential to ensure that poverty alleviation schemes truly reach those in need.