Massive Embezzlement Scandal Rocks Motor Accident Tribunal as Clerk Accused of 25 Crore Scam

The Motor Accident Tribunal is allegedly involved in a scam amounting to around 25 crores, revolving around an embezzlement case perpetrated by one of its clerks. The clerk, identified as Digambar Bholanath Dere, who worked at the civil judge's office in Katol, stands accused of embezzling 18 crore through the use of fraudulent documents. Further investigations have uncovered that the total extent of the scam over two years is approximately 18.5 crore, with expectations that the misappropriation figure may escalate to 225 crore.

Dere, during his tenure at the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal from June 11, 2012, to July 5, 2023, allegedly diverted compensation funds intended for claimants directly into his account. Subsequently, he transferred substantial amounts, totalling over 38 crore, to the bank accounts of his wife, relatives, acquaintances, and five companies, bypassing required procedures for various parties. Notably, no petition had been filed by any of these entities with the tribunal.

Upon the revelation of the scam, the Sadar Police registered two cases against Dere and 13 other individuals, including five companies. The accused faces charges of manipulating tribunal records, submitting false account statements, and using bogus documents to cover up the embezzlement. The investigation is currently underway to unveil the full scope of the fraudulent activities.

Complaints from petitioners and lawyers regarding non-receipt of compensation amounts in their bank accounts prompted the investigation, leading to the discovery of Dere's alleged embezzlement. Suspicions surround the destruction of crucial evidence, documents, and emails by the accused to suppress the scam. Presently, Dere is in judicial custody awaiting further legal proceedings.

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