Rs 1200 Crore Embezzlement Allegations Against Lilavati Hospital Trustees
The Lilavati Trust claims Rs 1,200 crore was embezzled by former trustees, affecting hospital services. Legal action dates back to 2001, with recent allegations including financial fraud and theft. A forensic audit confirmed severe irregularities, prompting new investigations and calls for accountability.
The Lilavati Kirtilal Mehta Medical Trust, which operates Mumbai’s esteemed Lilavati Hospital, has reported that Rs 1,200 crore has been embezzled by former trustees. The trust claims a total misappropriation of approximately Rs 2,100 crore over several years. The first FIR was lodged in July 2024, with legal action initiated as early as 2001 to reclaim the funds.
On March 7, the Trust filed a new complaint with Bandra police and the Enforcement Directorate, citing that the embezzlement has negatively impacted services for thousands of daily patients. Parambir Singh, ex-Commissioner of Mumbai Police and now Executive Director of Lilavati Hospital, noted that involved trustees are currently in Belgium and Dubai. He also mentioned disturbing allegations of witchcraft related to the funds.
Evidence of the alleged misconduct includes the finding of eight urns containing human remains under the flooring of a trustee’s office, which have been sealed and submitted to the police. A forensic audit, initiated by a new trustee team, revealed extensive financial irregularities and fraudulent activity among former trustees.
This forensic investigation marked the confirmation of substantial financial fraud within the trust. Sources have stated that this incident represents the largest scam in the medical sector. The accusations against the previous trustees encompass large-scale fund siphoning, illegal transactions, fraudulent investments, and bribes.
Furthermore, the recent FIR provides updated details about the investigation, alongside an ongoing case pertaining to the theft of valuables from the hospital’s Gujarat facility. Additionally, the Income Tax department claims over Rs 500 crore is owed due to fraudulent expenses charged by former trustees.
Permanent Resident Trustee Prashant Mehta condemned the financial mismanagement uncovered during the audit and emphasized that it poses a significant threat to the hospital’s mission. He urged the Enforcement Directorate to act swiftly and decisively in addressing these financial crimes with the relevant legal provisions.
The Lilavati Hospital fraud case highlights severe financial misconduct involving significant embezzlement by former trustees. The allegations lead to ongoing investigations, including a recent FIR and complaints to authorities. With a forensic audit revealing large-scale fraud, the Trust aims to ensure accountability and preserve the integrity of hospital services for patients.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
