Contributor,
Shubhankar C.
Advocate
Chairperson Adi Shankara Foundation
Shubhankar C.
Advocate
Chairperson Adi Shankara Foundation
In recent times, a troubling trend has emerged in our neighborhood where certain self-proclaimed leaders attempt to extort money from unsuspecting new residents. These individuals use deceitful tactics to make easy money without any legitimate effort. Their modus operandi involves targeting property buyers—whether plots or buildings—and coercing them into making payments under false pretenses.
Initially, they pressure the seller for a commission on the sale. If unsuccessful, they shift their focus to the buyer, falsely claiming that they have personally funded the laying of roads, sanitary work, or Kaveri water line connections. They demand compensation, often stating that they have spent lakhs of rupees on such infrastructure. However, a recent clarification from the BBMP office has confirmed that no such payments have been made by private individuals for infrastructure development apart from the prescribed taxes collected by the government.
Residents must be aware that basic infrastructure such as roads, drainage, and water supply is developed and maintained by government agencies using tax revenues. No individual has the authority to claim payments for such work. The perpetrators of these fraudulent demands are attempting to impose their control over the neighborhood through intimidation and misinformation.
In the last 20 days alone, at least three to four victims have approached the authorities for verification, only to discover that these claims are baseless. It is imperative for all residents, particularly new homeowners, to remain vigilant against such scams. Any attempt to force payments under these false claims should be reported immediately to the relevant authorities, including the BBMP and the local police.
As responsible members of the community, we must unite against these unethical practices and prevent such fraudsters from exploiting innocent residents. If unchecked, these individuals may turn into habitual offenders, posing a larger threat to society. We urge all residents to stand firm against such extortion and take necessary legal action when faced with such demands.
By staying informed and acting together, we can safeguard our neighborhood from these unlawful elements and ensure a safe and harmonious living environment for all.
Initially, they pressure the seller for a commission on the sale. If unsuccessful, they shift their focus to the buyer, falsely claiming that they have personally funded the laying of roads, sanitary work, or Kaveri water line connections. They demand compensation, often stating that they have spent lakhs of rupees on such infrastructure. However, a recent clarification from the BBMP office has confirmed that no such payments have been made by private individuals for infrastructure development apart from the prescribed taxes collected by the government.
Residents must be aware that basic infrastructure such as roads, drainage, and water supply is developed and maintained by government agencies using tax revenues. No individual has the authority to claim payments for such work. The perpetrators of these fraudulent demands are attempting to impose their control over the neighborhood through intimidation and misinformation.
In the last 20 days alone, at least three to four victims have approached the authorities for verification, only to discover that these claims are baseless. It is imperative for all residents, particularly new homeowners, to remain vigilant against such scams. Any attempt to force payments under these false claims should be reported immediately to the relevant authorities, including the BBMP and the local police.
As responsible members of the community, we must unite against these unethical practices and prevent such fraudsters from exploiting innocent residents. If unchecked, these individuals may turn into habitual offenders, posing a larger threat to society. We urge all residents to stand firm against such extortion and take necessary legal action when faced with such demands.
By staying informed and acting together, we can safeguard our neighborhood from these unlawful elements and ensure a safe and harmonious living environment for all.
