Pune Steel Supplier Faces Criminal Charges for Alleged Rs 8.3 Lakh Fraud
In a significant development in Pune, the Bavdhan police have taken legal action against the owner of a steel supplier firm and his accomplice. The case centers on allegations of duping a construction company of a substantial sum of Rs 8.3 lakh. This incident highlights growing concerns over fraudulent practices in the construction supply chain within the region.
Details of the Alleged Fraudulent Transaction
According to police reports, the complainant firm, which is actively engaged in constructing a housing project in Bavdhan, placed an order for 20 tonnes of steel in October of last year. The total value of this order was Rs 10.7 lakh, with the accused supplier promising timely delivery of the materials.
In November, the supplier partially fulfilled the order by delivering only 5 tonnes of steel. At that time, they assured the construction company that the remaining 15 tonnes would be supplied without delay. However, this promise was not honored, leading to escalating tensions between the parties.
Construction Firm's Pursuit of Resolution
As the construction project faced potential delays due to the missing steel, the complainant firm began actively pursuing the supplier owner and his accomplice for the delivery of the outstanding materials. The accused individuals reportedly started offering various excuses to avoid fulfilling their contractual obligations.
When it became clear that the required steel would not be delivered, the construction company requested cancellation of the order and demanded a refund of the remaining payment of Rs 8.3 lakh. In response, the accused issued a cheque for the full amount owed.
Legal Action Following Bounced Cheque
The situation took a serious turn when the cheque provided by the accused bounced, prompting the construction firm to approach the Bavdhan police formally. An official complaint was lodged, detailing the entire sequence of events and the financial loss incurred.
Following investigation, the police registered a case under specific sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The charges include Section 316, pertaining to criminal breach of trust, and Section 318, which addresses cheating. Both the supplier owner and his accomplice now face these serious legal allegations.
Broader Implications for Construction Industry
This case underscores the vulnerabilities that construction firms face when dealing with material suppliers. The alleged fraud of Rs 8.3 lakh represents not just a financial loss but also potential project delays that can have cascading effects on housing developments.
Police officials emphasize that such cases are taken seriously as they impact both business operations and consumer trust in the construction sector. The registration of this case serves as a warning to suppliers about the legal consequences of failing to honor contractual agreements.
Key Points of the Case:
- The construction company ordered 20 tonnes of steel worth Rs 10.7 lakh in October last year
- Only 5 tonnes were delivered in November, with 15 tonnes remaining undelivered
- The accused issued a cheque for Rs 8.3 lakh that subsequently bounced
- Police have registered the case under BNS Sections 316 and 318
- Both the supplier owner and his accomplice face criminal charges
The Bavdhan police continue their investigation into the matter, seeking to establish the full extent of the alleged fraud and ensure appropriate legal action is taken against those responsible.
