Hardoi police have registered a case against the managing director of a private company and an alleged agent after a local businessman claimed he was cheated of ₹25 lakh in an electric scooter franchise investment scheme. The complainant alleged that he was promised franchise rights, high returns and a fixed monthly income, but payments stopped after a few months despite initial disbursements.
The complaint was filed by Girish Kumar Gupta, a resident of Ahirori in the Tadiyawan police station area. He is engaged in the mobile phone business and operates two commercial establishments in the district. According to the complaint, a man known to him, identified as Vishnu, approached him with a business proposal involving an EV scooter franchise.
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Investment Promised Fixed Monthly Returns
The complainant alleged that he was told about a company scheme under which an investment of ₹25 lakh would secure an electric scooter franchise. In return, he was allegedly promised a profit of ₹3,000 on every scooter sold.
The scheme also reportedly assured a fixed monthly payment of ₹1 lakh to cover showroom operations, employee salaries and rent. According to the complaint, company representatives claimed that the responsibility for selling the scooters would remain with the company.
The proposal was allegedly presented as a low-risk investment opportunity with regular returns and long-term business benefits. Believing the assurances, Girish Kumar allegedly transferred ₹25 lakh to the company’s account.
Payments Stopped After Initial Disbursements
A few days after the payment, around 20 electric scooters were reportedly delivered to the showroom linked to the venture. The complainant alleged that the scooters were later sold through arrangements made by the agent involved in the deal.
As per the complaint, all 20 scooters had been sold by the end of June 2025. After the sales, the victim reportedly received ₹1 lakh per month for about three months.
However, the payments allegedly stopped after that period. The complainant claimed that repeated attempts to contact the company and seek clarification did not produce any satisfactory response.
Police Examine Business Records
After approaching senior police officials, the complainant alleged that he had been deceived through false promises of franchise benefits and business returns. Based on the complaint and preliminary material, police registered a case against the company’s managing director and the alleged agent.
Investigators are examining the nature of the business arrangement, the terms under which the investment was made and whether the promises made to the investor were supported by valid agreements or contractual obligations.
Police are also reviewing financial records, banking transactions, communications between the parties and other documentary evidence. Officials said further legal action will depend on the findings of the investigation, including whether similar complaints have been made by other investors against the same individuals or entities.
