Data entry operator arrested in no-dues scam

The police today arrested Manish Kumar Saini, a data entry operator at the municipal council, marking the fifth arrest in the no-dues certificate (NDC) scam involving fraudulent land registrations.

The investigation began on August 21 after a complaint by Udaypal Sihag, a resident of Suchan village, who alleged that a property owned by his wife near Kanganpur road was registered using forged documents and a fake NDC.

Devender Kumar, a property dealer, allegedly collaborated with municipal officials to manipulate land records and obtain fake certificates.

Inspector Sukhdev, SHO, Sadar police station, claimed that the accused altered land records by inserting false ownership details, enabling the illegal transfer of property and financial transactions worth lakhs of rupees. Reports from the municipal council and CTM office confirmed the NDCs were fabricated.

Saini's arrest has intensified the probe, with the police questioning him to uncover the extent of the fraud network.

Following his arrest, the police have increased scrutiny at the municipal office, interviewing several officials and staff members suspected of involvement. Sources said the scam was widespread, with fake NDCs used to sell numerous plots across the district. Several property dealers, municipal staff, and revenue department employees are expected to be involved.

Saini was presented before the court and remanded for two days.

Staff absent, chairman orders action

Following the arrest of data entry operator Manish Kumar Saini in connection with the scam, clerks and support-level employees at the municipal council were found absent from duty. Council chairman Veer Shanti Swaroop conducted a surprise inspection in the office on Tuesday morning, during which four employees, including a female staff member, were found missing without prior notice. The chairman has directed the issuance of show-cause notices.