A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader along with two accomplices was arrested in Assam for allegedly duping multiple companies of ₹8 crore. The case has caused a stir in political circles and raised serious concerns about the involvement of political figures in fraudulent activities. The arrested BJP leader has been identified as Ranjit Das, a local-level leader in Assam’s Nalbari district. His two accomplices, Sanjeev Kumar and Akash Sharma, are businessmen from Guwahati.
The Fraudulent Scheme: How It Unfolded
According to Assam Police, the trio was part of a well-planned scheme aimed at deceiving businesses through fake contracts and fraudulent financial dealings. The modus operandi involved approaching various companies, particularly in the construction and infrastructure sectors, and offering them lucrative contracts in exchange for hefty advances. Using their political influence, Das and his accomplices were able to convince these companies that the contracts were legitimate, and the companies would benefit from government projects.
Investigations revealed that the companies, lured by the promise of large contracts, were asked to pay advance sums as security deposits or initial investments. However, once the payments were made, the promised contracts never materialized. The fraudsters reportedly used fake documents and falsified signatures of government officials to make the contracts appear authentic.
A senior official from the Assam Police explained, “These individuals used their political connections and fabricated documents to mislead companies into believing that they were getting genuine government contracts. Once they received the advance payments, they would disappear, leaving the companies with no recourse.”
The scheme came to light when one of the duped companies, based in Guwahati, approached the police after failing to contact the accused for several months. The company, which had paid over ₹2 crore in advance for a road construction project, became suspicious after repeated delays and false assurances from Das and his team. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the entire operation was fraudulent, prompting other victims to come forward with similar complaints.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Following multiple complaints, Assam Police launched an investigation into the activities of the accused. After gathering sufficient evidence, police teams conducted raids at the homes and offices of the three individuals. Ranjit Das was arrested from his residence in Nalbari, while Sanjeev Kumar and Akash Sharma were apprehended in Guwahati. During the raids, police seized incriminating documents, fake government seals, and electronic devices used to create counterfeit contracts.
Speaking to the media, the Assam Police Commissioner said, “We have arrested three individuals, including a political figure, who were involved in defrauding several companies of crores of rupees. We are working to uncover the full extent of the scam, and further arrests are possible as the investigation progresses.”
The arrested individuals have been charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including charges of cheating, forgery, and criminal conspiracy. They were produced before a magistrate and remanded to police custody for further interrogation.
Political Fallout and Reactions
The arrest of a BJP leader in connection with such a large-scale fraud has caused embarrassment to the party in Assam, where the BJP has a significant political presence. The party leadership has distanced itself from Ranjit Das, claiming that his actions were personal and not reflective of the party’s values.
A BJP spokesperson in Assam, while condemning the act, stated, “The party does not tolerate corruption in any form, and we fully support the legal process. The accused will face the consequences of their actions, regardless of their political affiliation.”
However, opposition parties in Assam, including the Congress and All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), have seized the opportunity to criticize the BJP, accusing the ruling party of shielding corrupt individuals. Congress leader Debabrata Saikia said, “This is not an isolated incident. The BJP’s Assam unit has been plagued by corruption scandals. The arrest of Ranjit Das only exposes the party’s deep-rooted nexus with fraudulent activities.”
The AIUDF also echoed these sentiments, calling for a thorough investigation into the matter and the involvement of higher-ups. “Political leaders using their influence to defraud the public is a grave issue. This arrest should be the beginning of a larger inquiry into political corruption in the state,” an AIUDF spokesperson said.
Economic Impact and Business Repercussions
The ₹8 crore scam has also sent shockwaves through Assam’s business community, particularly in the construction and infrastructure sectors. Several companies have expressed concerns about the vulnerability of businesses to political fraud, and calls have been made for stricter verification processes when engaging with contractors.
A senior official from one of the duped companies remarked, “This incident has eroded trust in political connections and government contracts. We will now be far more cautious in dealing with projects involving politicians or politically connected individuals.”
As the investigation continues, the arrest of BJP leader Ranjit Das and his accomplices has become a significant issue in Assam, raising questions about the intersection of politics and corruption in the state. While the legal process unfolds, this case serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in business dealings, especially those involving political figures. With several companies still grappling with their losses, the long-term effects of the scam will likely be felt across Assam’s business landscape for some time.