A significant revelation emerged in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, exposing a large-scale racket operating in Pune. This syndicate has been deceiving young individuals by providing fake appointment letters, forged signatures, and seals, promising jobs in the Pune Municipal Corporation and fabricating experience certificates and financial documents in the IT sector. Minister for Industries Uday Samant pledged a thorough government inquiry into the matter.
Congress MLCs Satyajeet Tambe and Bhai Jagtap highlighted the issue during a session. Minister Samant assured that the Home Department would conduct a fair investigation into the gangs exploiting unemployed youths, ensuring strict repercussions for the culprits. Tambe pointed out the emergence of fraudulent activities in the private sector, particularly in the IT industry, targeting fresh job seekers in Pune.
The scam involved extorting amounts ranging from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh from each victim. Tambe revealed that the fraud came to light when a Bengaluru-based company conducted background checks on candidates. He called for a dedicated helpline to aid those falling prey to such scams. MLC Bhai Jagtap named suspects in the House, urging severe action against them.
Minister Samant clarified that although the initial complaint did not specify names, the government would independently investigate the matter. Despite a withdrawal of one complaint after partial repayment, the government would probe further into the involvement of specific individuals. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive examination of the accused and warned of strict legal actions, including imprisonment of up to 10 years.
The Minister highlighted that the fake experience certificate scam extended beyond Pune, prompting scrutiny across all police commissionerates in the state. He assured the House of the police helpline’s confidentiality for complainants. BJP MLC Pravin Pote raised concerns over police department efficiency, criticizing delays in addressing complaints and advocating for immediate action in such serious cases.
