Govt job scam: BJP leader gets booked in Jammu & Kashmir

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Police have registered an FIR against a BJP leader following allegations that he cheated job seekers and small traders of lakhs of rupees by promising government jobs and commercial tent permits along the Amarnath pilgrimage route.

The accused allegedly collected substantial sums from people, assuring them he could arrange government employment and special permissions to set up tents and businesses during the Amarnath pilgrimage season. The complainants alleged that he used his political influence to make the promises appear credible.

According to the complaints, neither the promised jobs nor the tent permissions materialised. When the victims demanded the return of their money, the accused allegedly threatened them, prompting them to approach the police. The case has been registered on charges including cheating and misappropriation of money, and an investigation is underway.

Police are examining the accused’s bank accounts, financial records and other transaction details to establish the extent of the alleged fraud. Investigators are also probing whether other individuals were involved and whether similar financial dealings were carried out with additional victims.

A key focus of the investigation is whether the accused attempted to bypass official procedures for issuing route permits, commercial stalls and other facilities connected with the Amarnath pilgrimage.

The case has also sparked questions within political circles over what action the BJP may take against its leader. Police have appealed to others who may have been similarly defrauded to come forward with complaints.

Senior police officials said the allegations would be investigated and that strict legal action would follow if the charges are established.