Should a CBI Probe Be Launched in the LUCC Chit Fund Scam?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Uttarakhand CM recommends a CBI probe into the LUCC scam.
- Thousands of families are affected, losing their savings.
- Support from MPs highlights the seriousness of the issue.
- Eight arrests made, with more suspects being sought.
- Government assures justice for victims.
New Delhi, July 26 (NationPress) In a significant turn of events regarding the prominent LUCC (Loni Urban Multi-State Credit & Thrift Cooperative Society) fraud, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has urged for a CBI investigation, labeling the scam as a severe breach of public confidence.
The Chief Minister pointed out that numerous families, particularly those from rural and economically disadvantaged sectors, have been swindled out of their hard-earned savings.
He stressed the necessity for a central investigation to secure justice for the affected individuals.
During a press briefing in Dehradun on July 26, CM Dhami remarked, “This case has been under examination for a considerable period. Victims had previously approached me, and I assured them of a comprehensive state inquiry. Based on reports from officials and the Home Department, we have now escalated the issue to the CBI. If required, agencies like Interpol will also be involved.”
Supporting the CM’s initiative, lawmakers from Uttarakhand have also called for the harshest penalties for LUCC promoters and have requested the Centre to utilize Interpol to return the fugitive suspects to India. “This is not merely a financial offense, but a breach of public trust,” the MPs expressed in a shared statement.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured that “the strictest measures” will be enforced. “The offenders will face justice,” he affirmed.
The LUCC scam is regarded as one of the largest chit fund frauds in India, involving hundreds of crores of rupees and impacting thousands of investors—predominantly women—across at least eight states, including Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar.
The initial FIR in this case was lodged in Kotdwar on June 1, 2024. To date, 13 FIRs have been filed in districts such as Pauri, Tehri, Dehradun, Rudraprayag, and Uttarkashi.
Eight suspects have been taken into custody, while lookout notices have been issued for four additional individuals.
Victims who have been protesting for over a year are now filled with hope for justice.