Bengaluru (Aryavarth): In a startling revelation amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the Agarwal community in Karnataka is embroiled in a significant financial scandal involving alleged misappropriation of relief funds. According to a report by Samachar Parivartan, a balance sheet showing an expenditure of 79 lakhs in contrast to a distribution of goods worth 10 crores has raised serious questions about financial integrity within the community.
The investigation, initially reported on November 2nd, is part of Samachar Parivartan’s ongoing effort to highlight the activities of social organisations, aiming to commend laudable actions and expose detrimental practices. This initiative is designed to inform society about the true nature of these organisations.
Trusted sources within the Agarwal community have provided substantial information and evidence pointing towards financial misconduct. Former community president Sanjay Garg faces allegations of embezzling millions during his tenure. A committee formed within the community, led by new chairman Mahavir Prasad Agarwal, was tasked with investigating these claims.
Garg, in a statement to the current officials, allegedly admitted to the misappropriation of funds, seeking forgiveness for his actions. This admission was made under the condition of confidentiality, as relayed by the current officials.
However, the committee, under the guidance of senior member Chandraprakash Ramsariya (Chandubhai), has been accused of not conducting a thorough investigation and instead allegedly suppressing the matter. Concerns have been raised about other members involvement in previous scandals, including the Maharaja Agrasen Hospital case, raising suspicions of their alleged complicity in the current situation.
The community’s reluctance to address these issues has come under scrutiny. Enquiries by Samachar Parivartan regarding the Agarwal community’s financial statements during the pandemic have been met with silence from current officials.
A senior and former official of the society, speaking anonymously, condemned the actions of those involved, equating their guilt to committing a grave societal sin. They pointed out that figures like Mahavir Prasad Agarwal, Chandraprakash Ramsariya, and Sanjay Garg are entirely at fault for their intimidation tactics against those who question them.
In its commitment to transparency and accountability, Samachar Parivartan has announced plans to share evidence related to the Agarwal community’s financial discrepancies with other media outlets. This move is part of a broader campaign to shine a light on corruption in social organisations, promoting the emergence of ethical leadership and the ousting of corrupt elements from societal roles.