Chit fund scam: Justice Patra Commission's first hearing on Sept 6

Bhubaneswar: Justice R K Patra, who heads the Commission of Inquiry to probe the chit fund scam in the state, announced on Friday his first hearing will be held on September 6. A notification to file affidavit before the commission will come out within a day or two.

"Anyone can come to the commission's office at Police HQ in Cuttack personally to file affidavit regarding their complaints within 4 weeks. Those who cannot come to the office can send their affidavits by post," said Justice Patra. The Commission will send notices to complainants to appear before it after verifying their affidavits.

"I will ensure that depositors get back their money," added Justice Patra.

Two days back, carrying placards and banners, thousands of investors duped by chit-fund companies staged a protest near State Assembly complex.

"The government should set up grievance cells across the state to receive our complaints. Steps should also be taken to return the money of all the investors," a protestor demanded.

Notably, the government in May constituted the commission of inquiry to probe the alleged fraud committed by the chit-fund companies and suggest ways to safeguard the interests of genuine investors.