By TC News Desk
Agartala, 8th April 2025: Despite the passage of time, the infamous financial scam in the rural township of Ghilatli remains unresolved leaving a significant section of the population anxious and disillusioned. The incident involving fraudulent schemes under the guise of cooperatives has reportedly defrauded hundreds of lakhs of rupees from unsuspecting individuals. Retired teachers, farmers and local business owners are among the victims.
About a year back, it came to light how the manager of the Ghilatli Primary Agricultural Cooperative Society (PACS), Pranesh Deb, had orchestrated a web of deceit. By promising lucrative returns such as doubling deposits within three months or tripling them within six months, Pranesh Deb allegedly lured around 100 individuals into depositing their hard-earned money into what was later revealed to be fraudulent schemes.
“I trusted him because he spoke with such confidence and used the name of PACS. Now, I don’t know if I’ll ever see my money again,” lamented Mahesh Das, a retired schoolteacher.
The fallout from this revelation created a massive stir at the time. Following allegations from several individuals, Pranesh Deb reportedly confessed under pressure and assured the victims that he would gradually return their money. However, as of today, no significant reimbursement has been observed, leaving victims increasingly concerned. “He made promises, but nothing has come of them. We are still waiting, and there has been no action,” said Ranjana Dutta, a local farmer.
The cooperative authorities filed a case with the Kalyanpur Police Station against Pranesh Deb (Case No. 2024/22, dated 31/12/2024, under Sections 316(5)/318/336 of the BNS Act). Speaking on the matter, Inspector Tapas Malakar, officer-in-charge of the Kalyanpur Police Station stated, “The investigation is underway. We are examining all aspects to ensure justice is served.”
As the scam allegedly involves a sum of approximately eight lakh rupees, questions persist among the affected residents. “Will we ever get our money back? What actions will be taken against those responsible?” voiced one of the victims who wished to remain anonymous.
The demand for administrative action is growing louder within the community. “The administration must take strong steps to ensure people like Pranesh Deb cannot escape justice,” emphasized another victim. The mood in Ghilatli is one of frustration, as citizens await a resolution to one of the township’s most devastating financial fraud cases.
