Brother, Sister Marry Each Other in UP's Hathras to Get Rs 35,000 Under Mass Marriage Scheme

Hathras: A brother and sister have reportedly married each other to fraudulently obtain government benefits intended for newlywed couples in UP's Hathras. The duo tied the knot to receive ₹35,000, which is the benefit awarded to newlywed couples under the UP government scheme.

The case is part of a larger scam involving several couples remarrying under a state-run mass marriage scheme to claim financial aid.

Misuse of Marriage Scheme Exposed

The fraudulent marriages were carried out under the Mukhyamantri Samuhik Vivah Yojana, a state initiative designed to support low-income families by providing financial assistance for weddings. Under the scheme, Rs 35,000 is deposited into the bride’s account, essential household items worth Rs 10,000 are provided, and Rs 6,000 is allotted for wedding expenses.

Local reports suggest that among the participants were already-married couples who took advantage of the scheme by remarrying. However, the most shocking revelation was that of a brother and sister who tied the knot in order to claim the financial benefits.

 SDM Orders Investigation

The scam came to light after local residents raised concerns and filed an official complaint with authorities. Acting on the complaint, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Hathras, Ved Singh Chauhan, launched an investigation into the matter.

The fraudulent weddings were reportedly part of a mass marriage event held on December 15, 2023, in Hathras, during which 217 couples were married. According to local media reports, a municipal employee set up these fake marriages to get money under the government scheme.

Ved Singh Chauhan, the SDM overseeing the investigation, has assured that those found guilty of exploiting the government scheme will face strict action. He emphasized that the welfare program was established to support genuine beneficiaries, and those who misuse it will not be spared.