Popular Actors Duped by Fraudulent Advisor
Television actors Kunal Verma and Puja Banerjee have revealed that they were victims of a significant financial fraud, resulting in the complete loss of their life savings. The couple, known for their roles in Indian television serials, trusted a financial advisor who allegedly misled them into a bogus investment scheme. Speaking to the media, Verma stated they are now “starting from zero” as the fraudulent activity has left them financially devastated.
The scam reportedly involved the diversion of substantial sums into fake investment ventures, promising high returns. The advisor, whose identity has not yet been officially disclosed, reportedly gained the couple’s trust over a period of time before misappropriating their funds. The couple had deposited their entire savings into the scheme without knowing that they were being systematically defrauded.
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Rising Concerns Over Financial Advisory Fraud in India
The incident has brought to light the increasing number of cases involving financial advisory scams in India, especially targeting individuals with limited financial oversight mechanisms. Celebrities, due to their demanding schedules and reliance on advisors, often fall prey to such cons.
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While Verma and Banerjee are seeking legal action, the broader financial community is calling for stricter regulations on independent financial advisors. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has previously issued guidelines, but enforcement remains patchy.
The couple hopes that their experience serves as a cautionary tale for others and have urged the public to carry out due diligence before entrusting money to third parties.
About the Author – Anirudh Mittal is a B.Sc. LL.B. (Hons.) student at National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, with a keen interest in corporate law and tech-driven legal change.