In a significant case of alleged real estate fraud, a couple from Kanpur has been formally charged with criminal breach of trust. The charges stem from their decision to back out of a property sale after accepting a substantial advance payment of Rs 1.10 crore from their neighbour.
Details of the Alleged Property Deal and Payment
The complainant, Sunil Kumar, a resident of Shastri Nagar in Kanpur, approached the police with a detailed complaint. He stated that his neighbours, identified as Jagdish Prasad Ramchandani (alias Jagdish R Ramchandani) and his wife Shobha Devi, had agreed to sell their house to him for a total sum of Rs 2.57 crore.
Acting in good faith, Kumar began making advance payments as requested by the couple. The financial transactions started with a cheque payment of Rs 1 lakh on April 2. Subsequently, between April 8 and August 2, Kumar issued further cheques which collectively amounted to the total advance of Rs 1.10 crore.
The Deal Falls Through, Leading to Legal Action
According to the First Information Report (FIR) filed by Sunil Kumar, the couple later decided to withdraw from the sale agreement entirely. This sudden reversal came after they had already received the hefty advance, leaving Kumar feeling cheated out of his money.
Taking swift action on the complaint, the local police registered a formal case. Inspector Rajesh Sharma confirmed that an FIR was lodged against Jagdish Prasad Ramchandani and Shobha Devi under the relevant section for criminal breach of trust. The inspector stated that a thorough investigation into the matter is currently underway to ascertain all facts surrounding the failed transaction.
Implications and Ongoing Investigation
This case highlights the risks associated with high-value private property deals, even between acquaintances. The charge of criminal breach of trust is a serious non-bailable offence, indicating the police's initial assessment of the complaint's gravity.
Key facts of the case remain central to the probe:
- The agreed total property price was Rs 2.57 crore.
- The total advance paid was Rs 1.10 crore.
- The payment period spanned from April 2 to August 2.
- The accused and complainant are neighbours in Shastri Nagar.
The police investigation will now focus on verifying the contractual agreements, the sequence of payments, and the communications between the parties to determine the legality of the couple's actions in cancelling the deal after accepting the advance.
