13 Crore Rupee Deception: Trustees Demand Justice for Nashabandhi Mandal
Newz Daddy Daily News
In a shocking revelation, some trustees of the Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat have called for a thorough investigation into alleged fraud and mismanagement within the organization. This comes after discovering that despite a significant financial transaction in 2013, no land has been registered in the trust’s name. The complaint has been filed with the Ahmedabad Crime Branch, demanding accountability and transparency in the trust’s dealings.
Background of Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat
The Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat was established in 1960 with a noble mission: to combat drug addiction among the youth of Gujarat. For decades, the organization has played a pivotal role in raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and providing rehabilitation services to addicts. It has garnered support from both the state and central governments, receiving substantial grants to further its cause.
Emerging Concerns of Drug Smuggling
Recently, Gujarat has been in the news for a surge in foreign drug smuggling activities. Despite numerous seizures by the Gujarat Police, the prevalence of drug addiction remains a significant concern. Social organizations, including Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat, have been actively working to address this issue by creating awareness and offering treatment to addicts. However, the organization’s credibility has come under scrutiny following allegations of financial misconduct by some trustees.
The Alleged Scam: A 13 Crore Rupee Fraud
In 2013, Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat reportedly paid Rs. 13 crore to Prakashchandra Agarwal for purchasing land for the trust. However, it has come to light that no land has been transferred to the trust’s name to date. This discrepancy has raised serious concerns about the handling of the trust’s funds and the intentions of those in charge during that period.
Key Figures Accused
The trustees at the centre of these allegations include former education minister Karsandas Soneri, former Gujarat government official K.P. Vaghela, and Jitendra Amin. These individuals, entrusted with the organization’s leadership, are now being accused of embezzling the funds meant for the trust. The allegations suggest that they misused the substantial grants received from the government and failed to secure the promised land.
Vivek Desai’s Intervention
Vivek Desai, who became a trustee of Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat in 2021, discovered the irregularities in the trust’s transactions. Upon investigating, he found that Karsandas Soneri, K.P. Vaghela, and Jitendra Amin had not adhered to the trust’s rules and regulations. In response, Vivek Desai filed a complaint with the Ahmedabad Crime Branch, accusing Prakashchandra Agarwal of defrauding the trust of Rs. 13 crore.
Concerns Over Employee Remuneration
Another critical issue highlighted by the trustees is the non-payment of employee salaries. The state government had fixed the remuneration for employees working to promote and raise awareness about the Nashabandhi Mandal’s activities. However, it has been reported that these employees have not been paid since 1997. This raises suspicions that the trustees might have misappropriated the funds allocated for salaries. Additionally, the planners involved in this work have been dismissed, further complicating the situation.
Demand for Government Intervention
Given the severity of the allegations and the potential impact on the trust’s mission, the other trustees have demanded that the administration of Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat be taken over by the Charity Commissioner. They have requested a thorough investigation by the government to uncover the extent of the fraud and ensure that the organization’s funds are used appropriately.
Statements from Concerned Parties
Pankaj Sagar, a prominent leader associated with Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat, spoke to reporters about the issue. He expressed his concern over the degradation of the trust’s original mission. “After the establishment of Gujarat, Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat was founded with the sacred aim of freeing the youth from the bondage of drugs. Over the years, this grand tradition and purpose of service were maintained. But gradually, the board of trustees kept changing, and some of the new office bearers have been more interested in embezzling funds than in serving the community,” he stated.
The Path Forward
The allegations against the trustees of Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat have sparked a call for greater transparency and accountability in the management of the trust. The involvement of high-profile individuals in the alleged fraud has drawn significant public attention, and there is a growing demand for justice. The case filed with the Ahmedabad Crime Branch is expected to bring to light the truth behind these serious accusations.
Conclusion
As the investigation progresses, it is crucial for the authorities to ensure that justice is served and the trust’s mission is upheld. The Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat has been a beacon of hope for many struggling with addiction, and its work must continue without the shadow of corruption. The demand for an investigation and the proposed takeover by the Charity Commissioner are steps in the right direction to restore faith in this vital organization. The outcome of this case will not only affect the Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat but also set a precedent for how similar organizations are managed in the future.
The trustees’ call for an investigation into the alleged fraud at Nashabandhi Mandal Gujarat is a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in charitable organizations. As this case unfolds, it serves as a crucial moment for the trust to reaffirm its commitment to its mission and ensure that it operates with integrity and dedication to its cause.
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