Ranchi/Jamshedpur: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a massive crackdown in Jharkhand in connection with an alleged multi-crore scam under the Centre’s Ayushman Bharat Yojana. Raids are being conducted at around 21 locations across the state, including the capital Ranchi and Jamshedpur.

One of the key locations searched by ED officials is the residence of Om Prakash Singh, also known as Guddu Singh, the former Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to ex-Health Minister Banna Gupta. Singh resides in Nilgiri Apartment on NH-33 in Mango, Jamshedpur. ED officials arrived early in the morning and began their search operations at his residence.

Additionally, the ED team has also raided Spandan Nursing Home, located on NH-33 in Jamshedpur. While no official statement has been released regarding the searches, sources suggest that the investigation is linked to widespread financial irregularities in the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat scheme in the state.

According to initial reports, several hospitals in Jharkhand allegedly claimed funds under the scheme without actually admitting patients for treatment. The scam, running into crores of rupees, is suspected to have taken place in more than 750 hospitals across the state.

The Ayushman Bharat Yojana is a flagship health insurance scheme launched by the central government to provide free medical treatment to economically weaker sections. However, alleged fraudulent activities in its implementation have raised concerns over the misuse of public funds.

This raid comes as part of the ED’s ongoing efforts to curb corruption in government schemes. Further details regarding the investigation and possible arrests are awaited.