Bhubaneswar, Aug 24: Allegations of fake officials posing as Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) employees and collecting money from shopkeepers have surfaced in the city.

The alleged incidents were reported from areas including Dumduma and Bapuji Nagar, where individuals reportedly visited shops claiming to be BMC officials. They allegedly demanded planning documents from shop owners and questioned them for operating businesses under residential building plans.

According to complaints, the alleged impostors threatened shopkeepers with hefty fines and sealing of their establishments. They then reportedly demanded money to “settle” the matter. Some shopkeepers allegedly paid the money out of fear but were not provided any receipts.

A similar complaint has reportedly emerged from an electrical shop in Bapuji Nagar, while allegations of such unauthorised collections have also surfaced from other parts of the city.

The issue has gained attention as BMC has been issuing notices to businesses operating under residential building plans. Initially, around 4,739 establishments were served notices, while the number has now reportedly crossed 10,000, with more establishments being added to the list.

BMC Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar Mohanty clarified that the civic body does not collect money without issuing an official receipt. He urged citizens to immediately report anyone demanding payment without a receipt through the BMC helpline. He also warned that appropriate police action would be initiated if such complaints are received.

The alleged fraud has raised concerns among small business owners, with residents urging authorities to keep a close watch on individuals misusing the BMC's name to collect money.