Chandigarh Basketball League Scam: Chandigarh Police have registered a cheating case against the directors of YKBK Entertainment Private Limited and YKBK Enterprises, who allegedly duped former Punjab assistant advocate general (AAG) Deepika Deshwal of ₹1.06 crore. The accused, identified as Rohit Bakshi, Prerna Sharma, and Yoshiya Kato, allegedly misled Deshwal under the pretext of organizing a professional basketball league in Punjab.
How the Fraud Unfolded
In July 2019, the accused approached Deshwal at Punjab Bhawan through an intermediary, Mandeep Thakran.
They claimed exclusive rights to a professional basketball 3X3 league in India and sought Deshwal’s help in securing government permissions and venues.
An agreement was signed with the Punjab Sports Authority in Sector 34, and the league was inaugurated by the then-state sports minister at Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar.
After a few rounds, the accused halted the league, citing financial issues.
Chandigarh Basketball League Scam: Losses Incurred by Deshwal
Deshwal spent over ₹75 lakh promoting the league by organizing events and inviting TV celebrities and sports personalities. Additionally, she:
Invested ₹20 lakh to buy a Chandigarh franchise, expecting a 60% return.
Gave a loan to the accused, which was never repaid.
Later found out the accused failed to pay ₹11 lakh to a team as league fees.
Broken Promises & Police Action
Chandigarh Basketball League Scam: In 2020, the accused met Deshwal at a Zirakpur hotel, claiming they couldn’t release her funds due to the company’s financial struggles.
They assured her that their Japanese directors would soon visit India and settle the dues, but they stopped answering her calls.
After realizing the accused were habitual fraudsters, Deshwal filed a complaint at the SSP public window.
The Chandigarh Police registered a cheating case and launched an investigation.
Legal Action & Consumer Caution
This case highlights how fraudsters exploit sports leagues for financial gain. Authorities are now investigating the company’s track record and financial dealings.
How to Avoid Sports Investment Frauds:
Verify company credentials before investing.
Check past records of events and financial dealings.
Avoid advance payments without proper agreements.
Report suspicious activities to authorities immediately.
As the police probe continues, investors and sports professionals must stay vigilant against fraudulent schemes in the industry.
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