DD Correspondent
Jammu, Crime Branch Jammu has filed a chargesheet before the Court of the Additional Sessions Judge (Anti-Corruption), Jammu, in connection with a major fraud case involving the alleged misappropriation of government revenue and the use of forged documents in the Regional Transport Office (RTO), Jammu.
The case pertains to FIR No. 01/2009, registered under Sections 420, 465, 467, 468, 471 and 120-B RPC, read with Section 5(2) of the J&K Prevention of Corruption Act. The investigation was launched following credible information about large-scale irregularities in the functioning of the RTO Jammu office, which allegedly caused a financial loss of several lakhs of rupees to the government.
According to the investigation, one-time token tax collected from vehicle owners was allegedly entered in cash books for amounts lower than what was actually received, resulting in the misappropriation of ₹12,97,040.
The probe also uncovered the alleged use of fake driving institute certificates, fabricated documents and forged attestations for obtaining Public Service Vehicle (PSV) driving licence endorsements.
Crime Branch said the investigation, supported by seized records, witness statements and the forensic opinion of FSL Jammu, revealed that fake PSV driving certificates were allegedly prepared as part of a criminal conspiracy by Kulbhushan Sharma, Managing Director of Shivam Institute of Driving and Maintenance, and Raj Kumar.
During the investigation, several beneficiaries reportedly stated that they had never undergone the mandatory training at the institute despite certificates being issued in their names. Investigators further found that records of the institute had allegedly been destroyed to conceal the fraudulent activities.
On the basis of the evidence collected, Crime Branch concluded that the allegations were substantiated and filed the chargesheet before the Anti-Corruption Court, Jammu, for judicial proceedings.
Crime Branch has advised the public to remain vigilant against economic frauds and report such incidents to the SSP, Crime Branch EOW Jammu. Victims of economic fraud may also lodge complaints through the official email or contact the Crime Branch helpline.
