Sindri MLA seeks action against fake lottery racket

Dhanbad: Sindri MLA Chandradev Mahato has demanded a clear govt policy and called for strict enforcement after residents alleged that a fake lottery syndicate is active across almost all urban and rural areas of the district, generating an estimated daily business of Rs 8 to Rs 10 crore, the legisltor.

The complaint to the MLA sought immediate action against the alleged masterminds and demanded strict measures to curb the illegal trade. It said that despite a ban on lotteries in Jharkhand, fake tickets are being sold in several areas, including Baghmara, Nirsa, Govindpur, Baliapur, Sindri, Jharia, Katras, Bhowra, Pathardih and Jamadoba.

Complainants alleged the racket is being run in an organised manner through multiple counters across the coal belt. The complaint also claimed that a handful of individuals are controlling the entire network. It further alleged that fake lottery tickets are being printed and distributed from Maithon and Nirsa areas, though these allegations could not be independently verified.

Mahato said he earlier raised the matter in the assembly, after which the govt assured action. However, he said the situation on has not improved significantly. He expressed concern that poor and vulnerable people, particularly in rural areas, are being lured by promises of easy profits and becoming victims of fraud.

He said he will again raise the matter prominently in the assembly and seek action against those involved.