Cyber fraud victims in Haryana to get back their blocked money immediately through Lok Adalat; here’s the 4-step process

O P Singh, Director General of Police (DGP), Haryana, said the biggest problem posed by cybercrime was that even if the victim’s money was blocked, they had to run around courts to get it back. “Understanding this human challenge, the Haryana Police presented this simple and effective model before the government and judiciary. Now, no cyber fraud victim in Haryana will have to leave their rightful money to fate,” he said.

“Together, we have ensured that victims get quick relief and justice. I appeal to all citizens to immediately report fraud during the ‘Golden Hour’ by calling 1930, so that the police can save their hard-earned money,” the DGP said.

The state police had requested the state government and the Haryana State Legal Services Authority (HALSA) to include applications related to the release or de-freezing of blocked cyber fraud money under the category of Public Utility Services in Permanent Lok Adalats.

Accepting this request, the Department of Administration of Justice in Haryana issued an official notification formally bringing such cyber applications—where no FIR has been registered—under the jurisdiction of Permanent Lok Adalats. “This means such applications will now be treated as Pre-Litigation Cases (PLCs), significantly increasing the speed of the justice process,” the spokesperson said.

What is the 4-step procedure for refund?

The refund process will be completed in four simple steps.

Filing the complaint: The victims should immediately call the helpline 1930 or file a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in. The police will take prompt action and get the fraudster’s account blocked.
Application to DLSA: The victim must apply to the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) by filling out a simple form requesting a refund. During this stage, the investigating officer will assist the victim in preparing the necessary documents and bank report.
Verification: After verifying the application, the DLSA will forward it to the Lok Adalat/Permanent Lok Adalat, which will complete the conciliation proceedings and issue the refund order within a week.

Release of funds: Finally, once the court order is received, the concerned bank will immediately release the blocked amount to the victim’s account. The police and the DLSA will ensure that the court order reaches both the bank and the victim electronically without delay. Notably, the entire process does not require the victim to hire a lawyer – they can apply independently with DLSA’s support.

Advisory on job fraud

Even as the repatriation of Indian nationals trapped in cyber-fraud operations in Thailand is underway, which includes many victims from Haryana, the state police on Saturday issued an advisory on job fraud.

“All Haryana residents should contact their relatives working abroad—especially in Southeast Asia—to ensure they are not trapped in any cyber job scam or cyber slavery. Before accepting any overseas job offer, thoroughly verify the offer, company, and recruitment agent,” the advisory stated.

“Remember that visa-free entry for Indian passport holders in Thailand is only for tourism and short business visits—not for employment. Misuse of this facility may lead to detention or legal action. Stay alert and protect your loved ones from fraud and exploitation,” it added.

Caution against ‘digital arrest’
DGP Singh said there is no such thing called a ‘digital arrest’ as claimed by many cyber fraudsters. “It is totally absurd. If anybody receives such calls, they should first hurl a hundred abuses at the caller. Then, immediately report the matter to the cybercrime helpline 1930. The Haryana government has recruited cyber-commandos to take care of such fraudsters. The best way to prevent cyber fraud is to never do anything out of fear or greed,” he warned.