Assam Government Cracks Down on Massive Online Trading Scam, Transfers Cases to CBI

The Assam government has decided to transfer 32 cases related to an online trading scam to the CBI. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma discussed this decision with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The scam surfaced when a youth attempted to donate Rs 1 crore to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund, prompting an investigation.

The Assam cabinet on Friday decided to hand over 32 cases linked to the online trading scam to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for further investigation, according to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Addressing the press after a cabinet meeting, Sarma stated that he made the decision following consultations with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The transfer process is expected to take about a month due to procedural requirements. In the meantime, Assam Police will continue their investigations.

Sarma highlighted that if more cases related to the scam emerge in the future, they too will be considered for a CBI handover. Chief Secretary Ravi Kota has spoken with CBI Director Praveen Sood, who assured swift action in taking over the cases.

The multi-crore scam came to light when a suspicious donation of Rs 1 crore to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund caught Sarma's attention. While the Assam government has arrested over 65 people and formed 14 Special Investigation Teams, the opposition accuses it of using diversions like eviction drives. Sarma also ordered an inquiry into why suspects, actress Sumi Bora and her husband Tarkik Bora, were taken to luxury accommodations post-apprehension.

(With inputs from agencies.)