In a multi-crore fraud allegedly carried out in the name of a book scanning and printing project in Mandi, victims have begun to share their ordeal. What was promised as a high-return investment opportunity has left hundreds of families in deep financial distress.
Drawn by the lure of attractive profits, some investors put in their life’s savings. Others sold land to buy investment “slots” worth lakhs of rupees. Many took bank loans, while some borrowed from relatives. A young man invested his mother’s entire retirement corpus in the project, believing it would secure the family’s future. Today, they are struggling to manage household expenses.
Victims say the company initially paid regular installments, which built trust and encouraged further investment. After receiving timely returns, many purchased multiple slots, hoping to create a steady source of income.
One complainant said he first invested Rs 1.5 lakh and received Rs 55,000 per installment for seven installments. Encouraged by the returns, he purchased two additional slots worth Rs 2.5 lakh in June. However, payments stopped after just one installment. Soon, other investors also reported that their payments had ceased.
A large number of software engineers, Lok Mitra Kendra directors, small businessmen and unemployed youth are said to have invested in the scheme. Many believed it could become a permanent income source.
According to victims, the company operated branches in Kullu, Sundernagar and Kangra. However, several investors are reluctant to come forward due to fear of social stigma. In some households, the situation has become tense as loan repayments and financial commitments pile up.
Those who sold property or borrowed heavily now face mounting pressure to repay debts. The victims have demanded a thorough financial probe and the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). They claim most transactions were conducted through banking channels and written agreements were signed.
DSP Sundernagar Bharat Bhushan confirmed that an investigation has been initiated considering the seriousness of the case. He said the police are examining all aspects of the alleged fraud.
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