Nagpur businessman files extortion case against alleged blackmailer Pramod Bhagchandani

Nagpur: Another case has emerged against Pramod Bhagchandani, a notorious blackmailer accused of threatening to defame people on social media, pressuring them to shut their businesses and demanding lakhs of rupees to keep quiet. Tahsil police have registered a case against him on a complaint by garment trader Uddhav Savlani.

According to police, Savlani, 71, a resident of Chhaoni, runs a garment business. He has known Bhagchandani for about five years. In his complaint, Savlani alleged that Bhagchandani had been writing false and objectionable things about him on Facebook and other social media platforms, damaging his image among traders and in the community. Troubled by this going on for several days, Savlani objected.

Bhagchandani then allegedly demanded Rs 5 lakh to stop the defamation. Savlani refused to pay such a large sum, but the dispute only grew. Worn down by the continuing defamation and threats, Savlani agreed to pay Rs 2.70 lakh. Bhagchandani then began pressing him to pay it. However, when Savlani learnt that Bhagchandani was extorting money from other traders too, he said he was unable to pay. He then gave Rs 11,000 to end the dispute and be rid of him. The threats to defame him nonetheless continued.

Bhagchandani also allegedly filed a false complaint against Savlani with the Excise department and threatened to get his business shut down. In view of the continuing threats and other cases emerging against Bhagchandani, Savlani finally approached Tahsil police. After investigation, police registered a case under Sections 308(2), 308(3), 351(2), 356(2), 384, 506 and 500 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

The Bhagchandani racket is the talk of the city's trading circles. According to sources, more than 100 people in the city are victims of Bhagchandani, most of them said to be traders. Many victims have not come forward so far because of the Diwali business season and to avoid running around police stations. Some other victims are also reported to be trying to lodge complaints.

Bhagchandani is currently in jail in judicial custody. Two days ago, a case was registered at Panchpaoli police station on a complaint by civil contractor Santosh Kumar Singh, after which his associates are reported to have gone underground. Victims have demanded the early arrest of his associates as well. Police are investigating whether Bhagchandani and his alleged associates acquired property through blackmail.