A forgery-and-impersonation racket has allegedly emerged in Kolkata's Tangra area after restaurant owner Monica Liu claimed that a fake power of attorney was registered by someone posing as her. The fraudulent document was then used to secure a mutation at the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) in favour of multiple developer-linked firms, enabling an attempted takeover of two leased plots on Matheswartala Road.
Discovery of the Fraud
Liu, who runs restaurants in Tangra and other parts of Kolkata, stated that she discovered the alleged fraud about two weeks ago when unknown men entered and occupied the two plots. She realised that something had drastically changed on paper. She has since written to the police commissioner, joint CP Crime, DC East, and OC Pragati Maidan Police Station. Additionally, she has secured an injunction from the Alipore court and filed a writ petition before the Calcutta High Court against the disputed power of attorney.
Details of the Lease
According to documents, Liu is the 99-year lessee of approximately 15 cottahs and 2 chittacks at premises No. 75 (and linked municipal premises including 83B), Matheswartala Road. The lease deed was dated November 18, 2011, and registered at ARA-1 Kolkata. Liu said she has been in possession since 2011, her name was mutated as lessee at KMC, and she has regularly paid municipal taxes.
Alleged Changes in Records
The issue surfaced when Liu's name allegedly disappeared from KMC assessment records, and new entities were recorded in its place. Liu has filed objections with the municipal commissioner, questioning how the names of several real estate companies have been included instead. She called the changes illegal and void.
Urgent Appeal
Liu also highlighted that premises 83B houses 120 roosters that have not been fed for two years. She is seeking immediate intervention from the authorities to address the situation.
