Fake Bank Guarantee Controversy: BJP Launches Major Attack on Skill Development Mission, Demands High-Level Probe
Ranchi: BJP State Spokesperson Ajay Sah held a press conference on Monday, leveling serious allegations regarding the alleged submission of fake bank guarantees and payments worth crores of rupees within the Jharkhand government's Skill Development Mission Society. He claimed that blacklisted companies were removed from the blacklist in violation of rules, paid approximately ₹55 crore, and subsequently blacklisted again.
Citing documents, Ajay Sah stated that in August 2024, the then Mission Director had blacklisted six skill development companies until August 2026 after finding them guilty of submitting fake bank guarantees. He alleged that despite this, in October 2024, the then Mission Director Shailendra Lal—citing "public interest"—removed these companies from the blacklist and issued orders for payment. The BJP claims that approximately ₹55 crore was paid to these companies during this period.
The BJP spokesperson further stated that after action was taken regarding the fake bank guarantee issue in August 2025, these same companies were blacklisted once again. He questioned why, if the companies had been found guilty regarding the fake bank guarantees, they were granted interim relief and payments. He also alleged that preparations are underway to make further payments to these same companies after their blacklisting period expires in August 2026.
Ajay Sah remarked that if action could be taken against Vinay Choubey—the then Secretary of a department—in connection with the fake bank guarantee case, why has no action been taken against the responsible officials in the Labour Department so far? He demanded an impartial investigation into the role of certain officials involved in this entire matter.
The BJP has demanded a high-level inquiry into the entire episode, the registration of an FIR against responsible officials, and strict action against the guilty parties. BJP Media Co-in-charge Satish Sinha was also present at the press conference.
