Amita Singh Tomar, a government official who had earlier gained national recognition after winning ₹50 lakh on a popular television quiz show in 2011, has been arrested in Madhya Pradesh’s Gwalior in connection with a major financial irregularity involving funds meant for flood relief.
At the time of the alleged offence in 2021, she was serving as the tehsildar of Baroda in Sheopur district. According to investigators, she was part of a large network that misappropriated approximately ₹2.57 crore intended for victims affected by flooding. The scheme allegedly involved nearly 25 revenue officials and over 100 intermediaries who worked together to divert funds.
The method used in the fraud involved transferring money into 127 fake bank accounts. These accounts were reportedly created in the names of individuals falsely shown as beneficiaries, many of whom were relatives or associates of those involved. This allowed the accused to siphon off public funds under the guise of relief distribution.
The irregularities were detected during an audit conducted by local administrative authorities, which led to the registration of a police case. As the investigation progressed, a large number of individuals were named as accused, pointing to a coordinated and systematic misuse of government resources.
Tomar attempted to avoid arrest by seeking legal protection through anticipatory bail. Her plea was first rejected by the High Court, after which she approached the Supreme Court, where her request was again dismissed. Following these developments, police took her into custody from her residence in Gwalior.
Authorities have invoked multiple legal provisions, including those related to cheating, forgery, criminal breach of trust, and conspiracy, along with sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Officials have indicated that the investigation is ongoing and that the involvement of additional individuals may come to light as more evidence is examined.
