PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Nov 27: A 56-year-old businessman from Rajendra Nagar, Sakchi, has filed a complaint alleging that he was cheated of ₹1.25 crore by his own family acquaintances on the pretext of investing in a building construction project.
According to the complaint filed by Shankar Lal Agarwal, the alleged fraud was executed in a pre-planned manner by individuals he trusted deeply.
Investment lure in ‘Green Vatika Building Project’
Shankar Lal stated that in 2024, his acquaintance Ramesh Chandra Agarwal introduced him to an investment scheme in the “Green Vatika Building Project,” said to be run by his son Ajay Agarwal.
Soon after, Ramesh, Ajay, Rajesh Agarwal, and family members — Sonam, Sumita and Gaurav — visited his residence, claiming they were handling multiple real-estate projects across Jharkhand and promised him attractive returns along with flat allotments.
Believing them, Shankar Lal handed over ₹1.25 crore in cash on April 12, 2024, at his residence.
Land shown, agreement signed — but no construction
He was later shown land in Adityapur and provided a sale agreement for five flats, which initially reassured him about the project’s authenticity.
However, during a site visit in April this year, he found no construction activity — “not even a single brick laid,” he said.
Every time he sought updates, the accused allegedly cited fund shortages and avoided giving clear answers.
Meanwhile, he learned that primary operator Ajay Agarwal had allegedly absconded after cheating several people of crores of rupees.
Threats, forged receipt alleged
The matter worsened when, upon asking for a refund, Shankar Lal was allegedly abused and threatened.
On October 25, Rajesh and Ramesh Agarwal reportedly visited his home and handed him a receipt claiming that the investment amount had been returned via bank transfer.
However, the receipt allegedly carried forged signatures of both the complainant and witnesses.
Police begin enquiry
Shankar Lal has accused Ajay, Ramesh, Rajesh, Sonam, Sumita, and Gaurav Agarwal of fraud, forgery, criminal conspiracy, and issuing threats.
He has requested strict legal action, and police have received the application and initiated an investigation.
