A 44-year-old social worker from Parel has allegedly been cheated out of Rs 10 lakh by four individuals who posed as MHADA agents and promised to secure a flat in Dadar West. The Bhoiwada police have registered a case of cheating and begun an investigation into the matter.
House Hunt Turns Costly Trap
The complainant, Payal Khare, resides in Parel with her husband and two daughters. The family had been actively searching for a larger home since 2021. During this period, they were introduced through an acquaintance to one of the accused, Sanjay Pawar, who allegedly claimed he could arrange an MHADA allotment. He, in turn, introduced Vikas Bhave and Jagdish Bhagat as authorised MHADA agents.
False Assurances and Fabricated Process
The accused trio allegedly assured the family that they could secure a flat through a so-called MHADA “master file” mechanism. They also presented documents to build credibility. After learning that the family’s budget was around Rs 45 lakh, the accused reportedly offered them a 400 sq ft flat in Bliss Casa Society near Kabutarkhana in Dadar West. To further convince them, they even took the family to the building and pointed out the flat they claimed was available.
Payment and Agreement
The accused allegedly demanded a Rs 10 lakh token amount. The family initially paid Rs 1 lakh in cash, followed by Rs 9 lakh through cheques issued in the names of Bhagat, Bhave, and Mokashi. An agreement was signed, with possession promised within 45 days.
No Flat, Delays, and Alleged Threats
However, the flat was never handed over. When the family sought refunds, the accused allegedly kept delaying the process. One of them also reportedly threatened the complainant, citing political influence.
Khare told police, “We spent lots of time following up with the accused, but nothing happened.”
Police Action
After prolonged follow-ups, Khare approached Bhoiwada police, following which an FIR was registered on Tuesday against all four accused. Police sources indicated that accused Sanjay Pawar has a prior cheating case registered against him. No arrests have been made so far, and investigations are ongoing.
Source: Mid-day
