The police, whose job is to investigate frauds and deliver justice, have themselves fallen victim to a massive scam. More than 7,000 police personnel have been duped in a Rs 1,100 crore housing scam under the Maharashtra Police Megacity Cooperative Housing Society project. Now, the affected police officers will take to the streets, demanding justice. On March 10, the MPMC Bachao Kruti Samiti will stage a protest march to seek strict action against the accused, the committee officials announced.
How the Scam Unfolded
In 2009, the Pune Police Commissioner announced a residential project for police personnel in Lohegaon, Pune. Following this, the Maharashtra Police Megacity Cooperative Housing Society was formed in 2010. The housing project promised affordable homes to over 7,000 police officers and employees. However, the scam began when the society’s board of directors awarded the construction contract to B.E. Billimoria Company without any tender process, allegedly favouring the company. The directors and developers reportedly purchased land in their own names and duped investors.
Broken Promises
The society promised to build homes on 117 acres of land with affordable rates. The initial plan was for 60 buildings with 7 floors each, later modified to 11 floors, and then expanded to 14 floors. However, in reality, only six buildings have been partially constructed till now. The project’s name was also changed to Indrayani Sankalp during the registration phase, further misleading the investors.
According to the MPMC Bachao Kruti Samiti, the scam received political and administrative protection. The police personnel and their families are now facing financial crises. The victims will march to MahaRERA’s BKC office on March 10 to demand a thorough investigation and concrete action against the culprits.
This scam has exposed how corruption can impact even those who are meant to protect the law.
