UP News: In a startling turn of events, a couple from Russia has found themselves embroiled in a legal battle over a seven-storey building they constructed illegally in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. This couple, who allegedly exploited their tourist status to engage in fraudulent real estate activities, has seen their property valued at over ₹29 crore confiscated by the court.The Allegations Against the Russian DuoThe couple, identified as Natalia Krivonosova—also known as Nishtha Rani Devidasi—and her husband Yaroslav Romanov, alias Shyamsundar Charan Das, reportedly established a trust in Vrindavan under the guise of religious activities. However, it is alleged that they utilized this trust to facilitate illegal transactions. Special Public Prosecutor Shailendra Kumar Gautam remarked, The couple came to Vrindavan on a tourist visa and soon got involved in religious activities, including the formation of a trust. He further noted that their actions were not merely benign rather, they were engaged in illegal real estate transactions under the guise of a religious trust, which included renting out and selling flats within the building.Local Outcry and Administrative ActionThe situation escalated when local residents raised concerns about the couples dubious activities. In response to these complaints, the administration took action, leading to an investigation that uncovered fraudulent practices. The then District Magistrate Pulkit Khare issued an order on June 30, 2023, to confiscate the property under the Gangsters Act. Gautam stated, The couple challenged the decision, but Additional District and Sessions Judge Pallavi Agarwal upheld the decision on Saturday and ordered the confiscation of the property known as Russian Building.Courts Firm Stance on Illegal ConstructionOn Wednesday, the court reaffirmed its stance by upholding the confiscation order for the building situated in Ramanreti. The ruling not only underscores the seriousness of illegal construction but also serves as a warning against exploiting legal loopholes for personal gain. The courts decision reflects a commitment to maintaining law and order within real estate practices in India.This case highlights a significant issue regarding illegal property dealings by foreign nationals and emphasizes the importance of regulatory oversight in real estate transactions. The courts decisive action against this couple serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, regardless of their nationality or intentions.
