Scandal Unfolds in Pilibhit: Clerk's Fraud Involving Multiple Wives and Millions

Fraudulent Activities in Pilibhit

In Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh, a clerk with three wives has orchestrated a massive financial scam. He transferred government funds amounting to crores into the accounts of his wives, sister-in-law, relatives, and female friends. Following the revelation of this case, an investigation was initiated, leading to the arrest of seven women, including the clerk's two wives, sister-in-law, mother-in-law, sister-in-law, and two female friends.

The accused clerk, Ilham Shamsi, also known as Rahman, was employed at the District Inspector of Schools (DIOS) office, where the embezzlement occurred. Reports indicate that he transferred approximately ₹8.15 crores into the accounts of these women, with over ₹5.5 crores already frozen.

A significant question arises: how did departmental officials and the then DIOS remain unaware of this scheme that has been ongoing since 2018? The case came to light on February 14, when DIOS Rajiv Kumar filed a complaint against Ilham Shamsi and his wife Arshi Khatoon. Following the filing, Arshi was arrested, while Ilham managed to evade capture for an extended period.

With the recent appointment of a new SP, Sukirti Madhav, the investigation gained momentum. Upon examining bank accounts, it was discovered that millions were funneled into various accounts through fake beneficiary IDs and treasury token generation. So far, 53 suspicious accounts have been identified, with reports suggesting that the funds were used for land purchases and other investments.

According to Additional Superintendent of Police Vikram Dahiya, the case was registered in February based on the DIOS's complaint. The investigation revealed that Ilham Shamsi had fraudulently misappropriated government funds. Seven women have been arrested, and the inquiry continues, with actions promised against any officials or individuals found complicit.

Ilham Shamsi attempted to distance himself from the situation, but his wives, relatives, and female friends have been apprehended. Initially, his wife Arshi Khatoon was arrested and is currently out on bail. Recently, police arrested his other two wives, Lubna and Azra Khan.

Additionally, his sister-in-law Fatima, sister-in-law Afia, mother-in-law Nahid, and two female friends, Parveen Khatoon and Ashkara Parveen, have also been taken into custody. Authorities revealed that government funds were transferred into these women's accounts, which were then withdrawn and invested in properties.

Who is Ilham Shamsi, also known as Rahman?

Ilham Shamsi was employed as a clerk at the Janata Inter College in Bisalpur Tehsil. Gradually, he established connections and became associated with the DIOS office over the past seven years. He exploited system loopholes to create fake beneficiary IDs and siphoned off millions from teachers' salary accounts into the accounts of his close associates.

What transpired between February 14 and May 1?

The manager of Bank of Baroda alerted authorities about discrepancies in salary accounts, prompting the district magistrate to take notice. Subsequently, DIOS Rajiv Kumar filed a complaint at the police station. Following the complaint, Arshi Khatoon was the first to be arrested. As the investigation progressed, 53 suspicious accounts were identified, and ₹5.5 crores were frozen. The police are now examining the roles of officials and employees who have been stationed in the department since 2018.