Punjab HC questions FIR registration delay in ₹500 crore post-matric scholarship fraud

In a hearing before the Punjab and Haryana High Court, the judges pulled up the state for delaying the FIR in the alleged ₹500 crore post-matric scholarship fraud, noting that a cognizable offence identified as early as 2020 should not have remained unregistered for five years. The state chief secretary appeared virtually, apologized, and argued the delay stemmed from a November 2021 cabinet decision. The court rejected the interpretation that 'no coercive steps' shielded criminal proceedings. The Centre's additional solicitor general stated that the ED is examining the matter and has a copy of the FIR, requesting that copies be shared if any other FIR is registered.

The Vigilance Bureau registered a criminal case on April 16, 2026, after completing a preliminary probe. The report states that the case was registered in relation to the alleged fraud, but not against the three institutions discussed in court.

The Punjab cabinet decision dating from November 2021 was referenced by the state authorities as a context for delays in proceeding with the case.

Satbir Singh Walia filed a public interest litigation in 2020 seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into the alleged ₹500 crore post-matric scholarship fraud in Punjab.