Alarm bells rang in Jammu and Kashmir as a major government job swindle unraveled, leading to criminal cases against seven sharp con artists. The scam preyed mercilessly on the hopes of underprivileged youth battling unemployment.
Operating from nondescript offices disguised as recruitment agencies, the group flashed counterfeit offer letters and even organized fake training sessions. Fees were justified as ‘security deposits’ refundable post-joining – a lie that ensnared villagers and urban unemployed alike.
Following a tip-off and multiple FIRs, police swooped in, recovering incriminating evidence like stamped papers and digital templates. The accused had allegedly defrauded over Rs 1 crore, with victims spanning multiple tehsils.
The chargesheet will cover cheating, cheating by personation, and money laundering. Inter-state links are under scanner, suggesting a larger syndicate. Economic analysts link this to J&K’s 25% youth joblessness rate.
Vigilance drives and public advisories are now priority. The government plans a dedicated portal for job verifications. As families pick up pieces, this episode calls for robust safeguards against fraudsters masquerading as opportunity providers.