At a time when the poll-bound West Bengal has already launched ‘Yuva Sathi’ ~ a scheme to provide financial assistance to unemployed youths ~ a government official has issued a public warning about a counterfeit job racket operating in the name of his office in East Burdwan.
The Block Development Officer (BDO) of Jamalpur in East Burdwan, Parthasarathi De, considering the seriousness of the allegations regarding the misuse of his office’s name, has taken the initiative to alert the public about the fraudulent activities. According to the BDO, the racket has been using his name and designation, as well as that of the Joint BDO, which has created a stir across the district.
Mr De, through the official social media handle of the Jamalpur Block Development Office, posted a public awareness message yesterday stating: “Some persons are collecting funds in the name of the BDO and Joint BDO of Jamalpur block, promising jobs and other benefits and assistance. People are advised not to fall into their trap.” Incidentally, Mr De hails from the neighbouring Raina block.
Speaking on the issue, Mr De said: “We were shocked to receive complaints that certain unscrupulous elements were collecting money from unemployed youths by promising jobs or government benefits in exchange for hefty sums. They were using my name and designation, as well as that of my Joint BDO, which came as a bolt from the blue. We have not delayed in seeking immediate police intervention to ensure a thorough investigation.”
Police have since initiated an investigation into the matter. Officials said they are awaiting more specific inputs to proceed further.