The North News Special Investigation
Prayagraj/Chandigarh, February 7
In a shocking exposé, The North News has uncovered a massive cyber scam targeting pilgrims making online bookings for cottages, tents, and hotels for Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. Cybercriminals have been duping devotees from India and abroad through fraudulent websites, leaving them stranded without accommodation upon arrival in Prayagraj. The scam has left numerous pilgrims helpless after they realised that their bookings were fake upon reaching Prayagraj. Many had deposited significant sums, only to find that the promised accommodations did not exist. With little awareness about these fraudulent activities, victims were left struggling without a place to stay at the world’s largest religious gathering.
The North News launched an intensive investigation after receiving complaints from affected pilgrims on February 4. The team traced a scammer through a phone call, where he brazenly admitted to the crime, boasting that he was beyond the reach of authorities and could not be arrested. One victim recounted how they booked accommodations through the website “Divya Kumbh Retreat” (https://divyakumbhretreat.in) after speaking with a man named Srikanth, who provided details about the booking and facilities. The victim transferred Rs 10,000 through Paytm for two cottages, which included pick-up and drop services, meals, and arrangements for a holy dip on February 5. The fraudulent company even issued a receipt confirming the payment and services.
However, upon arrival at Prayagraj, the victim discovered that the phone number was switched off and the supposed accommodations did not exist. Other travelers at the airport shared similar experiences, highlighting the widespread nature of the scam. Many pilgrims, including families with children and elderly parents, were left in distress after being deceived.
Fraudster Dares Authorities
The North News, using a different number, managed to reach the scammer again. In a recorded conversation, the fraudster admitted to committing the crime and showed no remorse. He even boasted that he had only taken Rs 10,000 when he could have demanded Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000 as an advance payment. Shockingly, he threatened to hack the victim’s account and withdraw Rs 1 lakh, adding that he suffers from sleepless nights due to his fraudulent activities. When confronted about his actions, the scammer dismissed any moral concerns, claiming that advice to quit the crime was futile. He blatantly confirmed his role in deceiving pilgrims and showed no intention of stopping.
The North News team again contacted the mobile number 9238069237, which was available on the website Divya Kumbh Retreat as of February 7. The person on the call again identified himself as Srikanth. When informed that a family of five planned to visit Prayagraj, he stated that a tent would cost ₹12,000 per day and that two tents would be required for the group. He added that the package included pick-up and drop services from the airport, railway station, and bus stand, along with meals and special arrangements for a holy dip. A two-hour stay at Triveni Sangam, located just 100 meters from the tent site, was also part of the offer. Srikanth urged immediate booking, citing high demand and a surge in calls from devotees.
Urgent Need for Action
With Mahakumbh drawing millions of devotees, immediate action is required to dismantle these fraudulent operations. So far, 39.74 crore pilgrims have taken a holy dip at Triveni Sangam, and many more are expected. Such scams not only exploit devotees but also tarnish the reputation of the sacred event. The rising cases of cyber fraud present a serious concern, particularly in locations where Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah recently took a holy dip. According to recent cyber crime data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), ₹3,207 crore was lost across 5,82,000 cyber fraud cases between FY2020 and FY2024. Authorities must act swiftly to apprehend those responsible and prevent further exploitation of pilgrims.
(Victim details withheld for safety concerns. The North News possesses all relevant documents and recordings related to this investigation.)
