Kolkata: A 20-year-old cancer patient has been left in severe distress after being detained overnight by cops on charges of car theft. The incident led to financial and emotional turmoil for youth, who has now lodged an FIR with Survey Park cops. The incident stemmed from a Sept 2024 transaction, when the youth bought a used car from a dealer against Rs 8.5 lakh. Though the dealer provided him with most of the documents, including money receipt, delivery note, and original car documents, the ownership was not transferred to his name at the time.
The complainant, a third-year computer science student, said, "I was assured that all documents were in order and that the vehicle would be transferred to my name. After purchase, I made repeated requests to the dealer and the office executive of the agency for name transfer, as well as the original owner's KYC. I needed to take the car to college and hospital. But they told me the owner was out of town and it would be done upon his return. On May 13, the car was seized by Tiljala Traffic Guard. At that time, the agency owners appeared at Pragati Maidan police station and submitted an affidavit, allegedly from the original owner of the car, authorizing me to drive the vehicle.
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On May 30, the car was seized by Survey Park cops for a traffic violation. Subsequently, Pragati Maidan cops seized the car on the basis of a complaint by the previous owner, who said it had been stolen. "Despite the fact that I am in possession of the original documents and keys, the owner denied selling the car. I was detained by police, which was humiliating and detrimental to my health. The car was handed over to the complainant by Pragati Maidan PS without my knowledge in spite of me informing cops about the transaction on May 13," the youth said. Later, to resolve the issue, the dealership agreed to refund the full amount to the youth and signed an MoU. A cheque was issued, but was dishonoured due to insufficient funds. The youth, now facing threats and harassment, has been left without his money or car. The situation has taken a toll on his health, and he reported severe stress and a recent surgery.
He has lodged a formal complaint with cops, seeking legal action against the dealership and the original owner. He has requested registration of a criminal case, a probe into the fraudulent sale, and the recovery of his funds. He has also sought protection from further harassment.