Panipat: Police have registered an FIR against Rani Gahlayan, owner of ‘Pari Rani Suits’ in Sector-23, after a Charkhi Dadri woman alleged that she was cheated of ₹8 lakh under a franchise arrangement and later subjected to blackmailing. The complainant, Anju Rani, claimed that the accused used social media promotion to project a profitable business model and induced her to invest in the venture.
Franchise Deal Under Police Scrutiny
According to the complaint, the accused allegedly promoted her business through social media and claimed to operate a large manufacturing setup dealing in high-quality ladies’ suits. She allegedly assured the complainant that several people were earning substantial profits through her franchise model.
FCRF’s Flagship Cyber Law Certification Returns With a New Four-Week Cohort
The complainant alleged that fake documents were shown to create confidence and persuade her to enter into the business arrangement. She claimed that the accused demanded ₹8 lakh as franchise security and insisted that the payment be made only in cash.
The money was allegedly paid in three installments. The complainant said ₹3 lakh was paid on February 2, ₹1.50 lakh on February 17 and ₹3.50 lakh later at a court premises in Panipat.
Agreement Amount Allegedly Changed
A key allegation in the complaint is that the agreement document mentioned only ₹5 lakh instead of the claimed ₹8 lakh payment. When the complainant objected, the accused allegedly described it as a tax-saving arrangement.
The complainant further alleged that after the franchise operation began, promised GST billing and business support were not provided. She also accused the woman entrepreneur of abusive conduct and non-cooperation.
A market comparison later allegedly showed that the goods supplied were priced two to three times higher than prevailing market rates. The complainant also claimed that stock worth nearly ₹15 lakh included defective, torn and poor-quality suits, making the business financially unviable.
Digital Promotion And Transactions Being Examined
Chandni Bagh Police Station has registered a case under allegations of cheating and blackmailing and started a detailed investigation. Officials are examining financial transactions, agreement documents and digital promotional material allegedly used to attract investors.
Police are also looking into whether the case is limited to one complainant or linked to a broader pattern of social media-based franchise and investment fraud.
Officials said further legal action will depend on the evidence gathered during the investigation. They have advised people to verify business claims carefully, avoid cash-only transactions and remain cautious of online proposals promising unusually high returns.
