GUWAHATI: Several cases of fraudulent flood relief fund collection have surfaced across Guwahati in recent days, prompting concerns over scams exploiting public generosity during the ongoing flood situation.
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In one such incident in the city's Noonmati area, three youths were allegedly caught by local residents while collecting money in the name of flood relief. According to reports, the trio sought donations from the public by claiming the funds would be used to assist flood-affected people. However, locals alleged that the collected money was instead spent on alcohol.
Enraged residents reportedly detained the three youths, made them kneel in public, tied them up, and later handed them over to the police. Two other individuals allegedly involved in the collection managed to flee before they could be caught. Police have taken the accused into custody and launched an investigation into the matter.
The incident is part of a growing number of fake flood relief collection cases being reported across the city. Social media platforms have also seen the circulation of fraudulent QR codes and fake payment scanners claiming to raise funds for flood victims.
Recently, content creators Nilakshi R. Sarma and Krishnakshi Sarma issued public appeals warning people against making donations through unauthorised QR codes circulated in their names. They urged well-wishers to verify payment details directly with them before contributing to any relief initiative.
According to the media reports, more than 40 Instagram accounts soliciting donations in the name of flood relief. The analysis found that nearly nine in 10 accounts showed signs of fraudulent or highly suspicious behaviour.
With multiple instances of impersonation and fake fundraising campaigns emerging, authorities and public figures have appealed to citizens to exercise caution, verify the authenticity of donation requests, and contribute only through trusted and verified channels to ensure relief reaches those genuinely in need.
