Vadodara Man Arrested for Rs 40 Lakh PMAY Housing Scheme Fraud
In a significant crackdown on housing fraud, the Gorwa police in Vadodara arrested a man on Friday for allegedly cheating multiple citizens out of approximately Rs 40 lakh by falsely promising them flats under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). The accused, identified as Harish Chauhan, was apprehended in Karjan and subsequently produced before a local court, which remanded him in police custody for five days.
Details of the Fraudulent Scheme
According to a complaint filed by Varsha Pathak, a resident of Samta Road, the fraudulent activities began in January 2025 when she and her husband approached Chauhan at his office while searching for a flat. Chauhan presented himself as an agent of the Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) and assured the couple of a PMAY house in Subhanpura.
When Pathak requested to see the flat, Chauhan insisted that she first complete certain procedures and obtain an allotment letter. He then demanded money on various pretexts, leading Pathak to pay him Rs 6.83 lakh in instalments. In return, Chauhan provided her with a bogus receipt for the application form and a letter bearing counterfeit VMC stamps.
Victims Left in the Lurch
After Pathak sought possession of the promised flat, Chauhan repeatedly delayed the process and eventually closed his office, leaving her and other victims in a state of distress. Police investigations revealed that at least 15 other individuals were similarly deceived by Chauhan, with the total alleged fraud amounting to Rs 40 lakh.
Chauhan's modus operandi involved switching off his phone and going underground, which prompted the police to launch an intensive search operation. His arrest marks a crucial step in addressing such housing scheme scams that exploit vulnerable citizens seeking affordable housing under government initiatives.
Broader Implications and Police Action
This case highlights the ongoing challenges in safeguarding citizens from fraudulent schemes, particularly those misusing reputable government programs like PMAY. The Gorwa police have emphasized their commitment to pursuing such cases rigorously to prevent further victimization.
Authorities urge the public to verify the credentials of agents and documents thoroughly before making any payments related to housing schemes. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of due diligence in real estate transactions, especially when dealing with government-affiliated projects.
