Last week after an official of the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) received a fake circular mentioning that SRA flats could now be sold after a period of five years instead of 10 years, CEO Satish Lokhande filed a complaint at the Nirmal Nagar police station in the matter. The cops have registered an FIR against an unknown accused, who has even forged the CEO's signature on the notice and circulated it on social media. Police suspect that some estate agents might be involved in the matter, as this would make it easier for them to sell the flats.

The fake circular states, "Revision of project beneficiaries to sell their homes in five years instead of 10 years. Decision taken in a review meeting held on July 24, 2020 under the chairmanship of honourable chief minister. Considering all the suggestions from the developer and their associations and the present market scenario, the decision was taken on the basis of a recommendation provided by the sub-committee of the cabinet."

Speaking to mid-day, Lokhande said, "Last week one of our officials received a message on WhatsApp regarding the circular. The circular mentions that people can sell their SRA flats after five years. However, the rule is still the same and nobody can transfer their flats during the 10-year lock-in period. This fake circular even has my name and forged signature. I was shocked and immediately informed the Nirmal Nagar police about it. We have asked them to remove the circular from all social media sites. I'm sure a lot of people might have started selling off their flats. We have requested the police to take strict action against the accused."