JAMMU, Aug 5: The Crime Branch (CB), Jammu, has filed a chargesheet in a long-pending fraud case involving alleged financial irregularities and misappropriation of government revenue in the Regional Transport Office (RTO), Jammu, after completing its investigation into FIR No. 01/2009.
The chargesheet has been presented before the Court of the Additional Sessions Judge (Anti-Corruption), Jammu, in connection with offences registered under Sections 420, 465, 467, 468, 471 and 120-B of the Ranbir Penal Code (RPC), read with Section 5(2) of the Jammu and Kashmir Prevention of Corruption Act.
According to Crime Branch officials, the case was registered on the basis of credible information indicating large-scale irregularities in the functioning of the RTO Jammu office, allegedly resulting in a loss of several lakhs of rupees to the government exchequer.
A Crime Branch official said that the investigation revealed that one-time token tax collected from vehicle owners was allegedly entered in cash books for lesser amounts than those actually received, resulting in the misappropriation of Rs. 12,97,040 in government revenue.
The investigation also uncovered the alleged use of fake driving institute certificates, fabricated documents and forged attestations to obtain Public Service Vehicle (PSV) driving licence endorsements. According to the Crime Branch, evidence gathered during the probe, including seized records, witness statements and forensic examination by the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), Jammu, established that fake PSV training certificates were allegedly prepared in conspiracy by Kulbhushan Sharma, Managing Director of Shivam Institute of Driving and Maintenance, and Raj Kumar.
The beneficiaries whose names appeared on the certificates reportedly told investigators that they had never undergone the mandatory training at the institute despite certificates being issued in their favour. Investigators further found that records of the institute had allegedly been destroyed to conceal the fraudulent activities.
“On the basis of documentary evidence, witness statements and the FSL opinion, the allegations were substantiated and the investigation has been concluded with the filing of the chargesheet before the competent court for judicial proceedings,” a Crime Branch official said.
The Crime Branch has advised the public to remain vigilant against economic frauds and report any such incidents to the SSP, Crime Branch (Economic Offences Wing), Jammu. Victims may also submit complaints through the designated email or the Crime Branch helpline.