I am British Citizen of Indian origin. I was selling family property in Delhi and got into an agreement with a property dealer. Having done that, I requested a relative (Mr R) who had developed a close relation with me when visiting India. He ex property dealer. So, I trusted his advice and agreed to buy a house in Noida which he showed me. I was leaving Delhi for UK that day. He said leave X amount in cash and said he will draw an agreement and sent it to my brother to be posted to me to sign. He assured that he will take full responsibility of money and he will return the cash after deduction of one lac or so if the deal does not go through for any reason. So, I gave instruction to my brother to hand over the cash to Mr R and get the agreement. A day after I left, Mr R sent two people (working for another estate Agent Mr U) to collect money but did not send the agreement. Mr R as he was well known to family and he assured that he will send the agreement on the same day, my brother handed over the cash without taking anything in writing{a gross mistake). Mr R assured that he takes full responsibility of money. I have failed to get a written agreement as yet in 2 years. Due to recession my sale had been delayed but I was prepared to fund the purchase with an alternative source but not until I received a written agreement. He refused to give anything in writing on various excuses and time passed. The house that I was going to buy was in the mean time sold and Mr R said that my deposit is confiscated but will not give in writing. Mr U is Mr's close friend. Mr R says that the money collected by two people, he had sent to Mr U whome I had never met until later.
I registered FIR against Mr R and Mr U one year ago but nothing has happened primarily due to interferance from various people in high places known to Mr U. Mr U does not deny the receipt of cash but says that I did not complete the tranction, so deposit is confiscated. Being British Citizen and living in Uk, I do not know how I can proceed with Legal action in the light of correction at all levels in Delhi/Noida. Can you please suggest what is my best course of action, preferably without incurring large expenses.
Thank you
