JAMTARA | Special Correspondent: Authorities in Jharkhand’s Jamtara district have exposed a fraudulent NGO that allegedly swindled poor and tribal women under the pretext of providing jobs. The NGO’s director, Dheeraj Kumar Gupta, a resident of Gopalganj, Bihar, has been arrested and remanded to police custody.
The organization, operating under the name “Life Child Education Welfare”, was registered in Deoria district of Uttar Pradesh but was running 24 unauthorized branches across Jharkhand. According to official reports, the NGO collected ₹31,000 from each of 117 victims, promising them secure employment in government and private institutions.
Raids Reveal Scale of the Scam
Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Anant Kumar led a surprise inspection of the NGO’s office near the old court complex in Jamtara on Sunday. During the raid, investigators recovered registers containing the names of 117 individuals, most of them from rural pockets of Jamtara and Deoghar districts.
When questioned, Gupta failed to produce valid authorization or recruitment-related documents. The SDO confirmed that the organization’s paperwork made no mention of employment, recruitment tests, or vocational training, indicating that the NGO was operating under false pretenses.
“The case appeared highly suspicious. The director has been taken into custody and the NGO’s office has been sealed pending further investigation,” said SDO Anant Kumar.
Fraudulent Network and Collusion Suspected
The First Information Report (FIR) was filed based on a statement by the Jamtara Circle Officer (CO). Preliminary investigations revealed that the NGO had established an extensive network across rural Jharkhand, luring unemployed youth with promises of government-linked jobs.
Victims were reportedly made to pay ₹31,000 as a “registration and training fee.” Some were even handed fake appointment letters under government welfare schemes. Officials suspect collusion between NGO staff and local intermediaries who helped identify potential targets in remote villages.
Key Facts at a Glance
Amount Extorted: ₹31,000 per person
Total Victims: Over 117 individuals
Accused: Dheeraj Kumar Gupta, resident of Gopalganj (Bihar)
NGO Registered: Deoria, Uttar Pradesh
Branches Operated: 24 across Jharkhand
Legal Action: FIR lodged, office sealed, accused arrested
A Broader Pattern of Exploitation
The case highlights a growing trend where fraudulent NGOs exploit unemployment and poverty to prey on vulnerable communities. Officials have confirmed that an expanded probe will examine all branch offices and financial transactions associated with the NGO.
Law enforcement sources said more arrests are likely, as several individuals linked to the organization’s operations are now under surveillance.
“The investigation is widening, and additional suspects may be named soon,” said SSP who is supervising the inquiry.
