Durga Puja Donation Scam in Ishwardi, Pabna: Fraudsters Swindle Money from the Poor

PNN News Desk | Pabna:

In Bagail Dashpara village of Ishwardi Upazila, Pabna, a fraudulent group has been accused of taking money from impoverished residents by luring them with promises of government donations for Durga Puja celebrations. After the incident, the victims filed written and verbal complaints with various authorities.

According to reports, Sunil Chakraborty, president of the Upazila Puja Celebration Committee, informed Palash Chandra via mobile phone that a government donation of BDT 4,200, along with rice, lentils, and oil, would be provided. When Palash Chandra contacted a number from the Upazila office, he was redirected to another number and introduced to someone claiming to be a senior officer. This ‘senior officer’ then demanded BDT 600 per donation form.

Following these instructions, Palash Chandra collected a total of BDT 21,600 from 36 families and sent it via bKash. After sending the money, the number was deactivated. When Sunil Chakraborty was informed, he confirmed that the number was fake.

The victims expressed anger, demanding that the culprits be punished and the money returned. Palash Chandra, president of the Shri Shri Barowari Matri Mandir Committee, said, “I sent the money hoping for the donation based on the Upazila committee president’s advice. I hope the matter will be resolved quickly.”

Ishwardi Upazila Social Services Officer Atikur Rahman stated that no donations have been issued by the Social Services Office for the upcoming Durga Puja, nor have any phone calls been made. Preparations are underway to file a police complaint regarding the incident.