World's cheapest smartphone maker comes under excise, IT scanners

BJP MP: This is a Ponzi bogus company scam, that is why I went through all the papers on the company

Noida based start-up Ringing Bells has come under the scanner of excise and income tax departments as debates around the feasibility of offering a Rs. 251 handset comes into light.

"Yes, there was a visit from excise department and IT Department. Since we are planning to achieve milestones under Make in India, Skill India and Startup India. They issued us some guidelines for future and extended full support and cooperation," Ringing Bells President Ashok Chadha said.

Meanwhile, BJP MP Kirit Somaiya on Friday levelled serious allegation against the company, saying it is a 'ponzi bogus company scam'.

"This is a huge scam, that is why I went through all the papers of the company. The government has informed Uttar Pradesh government to check the bonafide of the promoter. This is a Ponzi bogus company scam," Somaiya said.

Noida-based company Ringing Bells on Thursday started booking for the phone for Rs 251 and has said that delivery of all handsets will be completed by June 30.

The smartphone was launched by BJP MP Murli Manohar Joshi on February 17 at Delhi's Nehru Park.