Fatehpur: A case of financial fraud has surfaced in which women members of a self-help group were cheated of ₹35.67 lakh on the false promise of ration quota and colony allotment. The accused allegedly claimed strong contacts with government officials and assured benefits under government schemes, eventually collecting the money from the victims. Following complaints from the women, police have registered a case and started an investigation.
According to the victims, a woman named Kirty Vishwakarma, a resident of Yogendra Bihar in the Nauabasta police jurisdiction, was associated with the group as its operator for several years. It is alleged that she approached group members claiming that she had direct access to government authorities and could easily help them obtain ration shop licenses and colony allotments.
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Taking advantage of this trust, the accused collected money from the women. The complaint states that initially ₹50,000 was taken online in the name of securing a ration shop. During 2025, the accused also collected about ₹24,96,700 in cash in several instalments. An additional ₹8.50 lakh was taken for colony allotment promises.
Several other women were also allegedly cheated of smaller amounts, including ₹90,000 from Manju Devi, ₹90,000 from Anarkali, and ₹28,000 from Gudia Devi.
The victims stated that the accused later provided them with documents related to the ration shop. However, when the women approached the District Supply Office for verification, officials informed them that the documents were fake and had no official record.
After learning about the fraud, the women demanded their money back. It is alleged that the accused responded with abusive language and also threatened them with death. When the women visited the accused’s residence, they found the house locked. Reports suggest that both the accused woman and her father-in-law’s house were also locked and she had fled the area.
Following the incident, the victims lodged a complaint with the local police. An FIR has been registered and an investigation has begun. Police said they are collecting evidence based on the allegations and efforts are underway to trace the accused for further legal action.
Officials have urged the public to verify any claim offering government benefits or investment returns before trusting such offers. People have been advised to check with the concerned government department before investing money in group-based schemes.
The incident reflects the growing number of financial fraud cases in the region. Authorities said awareness campaigns are being conducted to curb cyber and economic crimes. Police are continuing the search for the accused and further action will be taken after completing the investigation.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
