Hyderabad: A man posing as a representative of a Central govt scheme and a physiotherapy expert has been visiting govt schools, junior colleges and offices in Khammam over the past three days. He allegedly misled teachers and employees into buying low-quality magnetic belts by promising health benefits.The man has reportedly visited govt high schools in Nayabazar, Rajendranagar and Shantinagar, targeting teachers and other staff members during lunch breaks. He claims to have come from the Centre and says he has important information to share, using the pretext to gather headmasters, teachers and employees before promoting the belts.He begins his pitch with basic health tips, including applying pressure to certain points on the body, using hand exercise balls and applying castor oil. After gaining the attention of his audience, he produces the magnetic belts and offers them for sale.Claiming that the belts are worth ₹900 to ₹1,000 in the market, he says he is offering them at a discounted price of ₹350 to ₹450 each. He also claims that the first 10 buyers can get the belts free, according to information available.The man reportedly insists on cash payments, claiming that he does not use digital payment platforms such as PhonePe or Google Pay. He keeps his face mask on while conducting transactions and has not produced any identity card or documents establishing his claimed affiliation with the Central govt or his qualifications as a physiotherapy expert.Despite the man lacking credentials, some teachers have reportedly purchased the belts after believing his claims. His entry into educational institutions without proper verification has also raised concerns about the screening of outsiders visiting govt premises.Khammam Urban mandal education officer (MEO) Shailaja Lakshmi said the matter had come to her notice and cautioned teachers against falling for such claims.“Teachers should not believe claims that wearing magnetic belts helps burn fat. Some have already purchased them. They should remain alert to people who try to mislead them with such promises and should not allow unauthorised persons into school premises. They should not waste their valuable time on such individuals,” she said.She advised school authorities to verify the identity and credentials of visitors before allowing them to interact with staff members, particularly when they claim to represent govt schemes or offer health-related advice.
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