Jhansi School Headmaster Arrested Over Alleged ₹2 Lakh Mid-Day Meal Fund Fraud

Police have arrested a former officiating headmaster of a government upper primary school in Jhansi district, Uttar Pradesh, over allegations that ₹2 lakh was misappropriated from funds allocated for the mid-day meal scheme.

According to a report by the Press Trust of India (PTI), the accused, Govind Das Arya, allegedly altered a cheque originally issued for ₹15,000, increasing the amount to ₹2.15 lakh. The alleged irregularity came to light following a complaint by Seema Singh, the village head of Bauda gram panchayat.

Circle Officer Ratneshwar Singh said the police registered a case on August 9 after receiving the complaint. Following an investigation, Mauranipur police arrested Arya from Ranipur Road. Further legal proceedings are underway, according to the police.

Jhansi Mid-Day Meal Fund Case: How the Alleged Fraud Came to Light

The case concerns the government upper primary school in Bauda village, where the cheque was reportedly issued for purchasing school supplies.

According to the complaint, the cheque was intended to cover expenses associated with school requirements. The amount was allegedly changed from ₹15,000 to ₹2.15 lakh before it was encashed.

The difference between the original cheque amount and the amount allegedly withdrawn was ₹2 lakh. Investigators are examining the alleged misuse of money linked to the school’s mid-day meal fund.

The allegations relate to the handling of government funds intended to support school meal arrangements. The case was registered after the village head approached the police.

Police Investigation and Arrest

Police registered the case on August 9, 2026, based on the complaint filed by Seema Singh. Following the investigation, the accused was arrested on Thursday, October 22, according to reports published on October 22 and 23.

The case is being handled by Mauranipur police in Jhansi district. Authorities have said that further legal proceedings are in progress.

The allegations have not been established as proven guilt. The accused remains entitled to the due process of law, and the case will be determined through the legal proceedings.

Why the Mid-Day Meal Fund Matters

The government’s school meal programme is intended to support children’s nutrition and encourage school attendance. Funds allocated to schools help meet expenses associated with providing meals and maintaining the necessary arrangements.

Alleged irregularities involving such funds can raise concerns about financial accountability and the proper use of resources intended for students. The investigation in Jhansi will determine the facts surrounding the disputed cheque and the alleged withdrawal.