SEBI finds 82 scrips manipulated via social media stock tips

This is an interim order by SEBI regarding a family group of seven individuals who allegedly manipulated stock prices on the SME platform by posting recommendations on social media (X, WhatsApp, Telegram) to inflate prices before selling their own holdings. SEBI found prima facie violations of fraud and unfair trade practices regulations and issued directions to restrain these activities.

Hemant Gupta, Rohan Gupta, Aniket Gupta, Sharon Gupta, Leana Gupta, Rajani Gupta, and Purvangi Gupta.

• SEBI found the Noticees prima facie engaged in fraud, manipulation, and unfair trade practices in 82 scrips.
• The alleged modus operandi involved building buy positions, disseminating stock recommendations on social media to inflate prices, and then selling shares to make gains.
• SEBI calculated prima facie wrongful gains of INR 20.25 crores.
• Noticees 1, 2, and 3 (Hemant, Rohan, and Aniket Gupta) were found to have violated SEBI (Research Analyst) Regulations, 2014, in addition to the SEBI Act and PFUTP Regulations.
• The order is interim and ex-parte, passed during the pendency of the investigation.
• Search and seizure operations were conducted from January 21 to 24, 2026, seizing electronic devices and recording statements.

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