How Did a Govt Official Lose Rs 31 Lakh to a Scam?
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Synopsis
A senior Health Ministry official becomes a victim of a sophisticated scam, losing Rs 31 lakh to a self-proclaimed currency investor. The case reveals a troubling pattern of deception and intimidation, hinting at a larger financial conspiracy. Will the police be able to apprehend the accused and provide justice?
Key Takeaways
- High-profile scam: A government official lost Rs 31 lakh.
- Accused's tactics: The scammer used trust and intimidation.
- Investigation underway: Police are probing the financial dealings.
- Potential accomplices: The case hints at a larger network of fraud.
- Awareness needed: Individuals must be cautious with investments.
New Delhi, Aug 20 (NationPress) A high-ranking official from the Ministry of Health has lodged a criminal complaint against an alleged currency market investor, claiming a well-planned scam that took away Rs 31 lakh from both the official and his family.
The accused, Praful Bhat, resides in Nashik, Maharashtra, and Noida, Uttar Pradesh, and is accused of enticing Anand Chaturvedi, the complainant, to invest in a supposed lucrative currency trading scheme.
The complaint, filed at the Lodhi Colony Police Station under the South district of Delhi Police, outlines a troubling sequence of financial deceit, shattered trust, and intimidation.
An official revealed that Praful Bhat approached the senior government official in July 2023 with an alluring proposition - invest Rs 25 lakh and receive double within a year.
Trusting Bhat, whom he had known for some time, Chaturvedi and his family transferred funds from their personal accounts, including contributions from his wife and his widowed mother.
According to the official, the total investment swelled to Rs 31 lakh after Bhat claimed to face financial difficulties and extorted an additional Rs 6 lakh, promising a further Rs 1 lakh in return.
All funds collected for investment were reportedly siphoned off to various accounts by the accused, as noted by the complainant, which clearly indicates an intent to defraud from the very beginning.
Chaturvedi alleges that Bhat threatened him and his family with severe repercussions should they seek repayment.
The complaint suggests a larger scam, identifying another victim and implying that Bhat and his associates may have defrauded multiple individuals. It's alleged that the funds were redirected to his accomplices and partners, raising concerns of criminal misappropriation and breach of trust,” the official stated.
Chaturvedi has called upon the Delhi Police to delve into the matter under appropriate sections of the BNS and BNSS, demanding a comprehensive inquiry into Bhat’s financial transactions and alleged partners.
An FIR has been filed regarding the case, yet the accused remains at large.
Point of View
I stand with our nation in highlighting the urgent need for vigilance against financial fraud. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in investment schemes. It is crucial for individuals to exercise caution and conduct thorough research before entrusting their finances to anyone.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the scam involving the govt official?
A senior official from the Ministry of Health was duped of Rs 31 lakh by a self-proclaimed currency market investor who promised high returns.
Who is the accused in this case?
The accused is Praful Bhat, who is reportedly a resident of Nashik, Maharashtra, and Noida, Uttar Pradesh.
What actions have been taken by the police?
An FIR has been registered, and the Delhi Police are currently investigating the case to apprehend the accused.
How much money was involved in the scam?
The total amount involved in the scam is Rs 31 lakh, which includes additional funds extorted by the accused.
Is this case part of a larger scam?
Yes, the complaint suggests that there may be multiple victims and accomplices involved in a broader financial scam.
