The Lilavati Hospital Trust claims Rs 1,200 crore has been embezzled by former trustees, with total misappropriation at Rs 2,100 crore. A forensic audit revealed significant financial fraud, prompting new police complaints. The Trust demands accountability and swift action against those responsible for these illegal activities.
The Lilavati Kirtilal Mehta Medical Trust, which operates Mumbai’s renowned Lilavati Hospital, has reported alleged embezzlement of Rs 1,200 crore by former trustees, with total misappropriation estimated at Rs 2,100 crore. The trust initiated legal action as early as 2001, seeking to recover lost funds. Most recently, on March 7, 2024, a complaint was filed with the Bandra police and the Enforcement Directorate, emphasizing the impact on patient services due to the lack of funds.
Parambir Singh, the Executive Director of Lilavati Hospital and former Commissioner of Mumbai Police, indicated that the implicated trustees are believed to be residing in Belgium and Dubai. Disturbingly, Mr. Singh reported that eight urns containing human remains were discovered under the flooring of the trustee’s office, with the items sealed for police examination.
Following long-standing court proceedings, a forensic audit conducted by a new trustee team unearthed significant financial discrepancies and fraud. Allegations include large-scale siphoning of funds and various fraudulent activities by the former trustees. A source described it as “the biggest scam ever in the medical sector.”
The latest FIR, filed on March 7, unveils additional details regarding the investigation. Furthermore, investigations are ongoing regarding the theft of valuables from a Gujarat facility of the hospital. The Income Tax department has also claimed over Rs 500 crore in fraudulent expenditures linked to the former trustees.
In a statement addressing the situation, Permanent Resident Trustee Prashant Mehta articulated, “The gross misconduct and financial misappropriation uncovered during the forensic audit is…a direct threat to the very mission of our hospital. We will ensure that every individual involved in these illegal activities is held accountable.” The Trust has requested that swift action be taken by the Enforcement Directorate to investigate these financial crimes under the PMLA provisions.
The Lilavati Hospital Trust has uncovered extensive fraud by former trustees, amounting to Rs 2,100 crore, which has severely impacted hospital operations. With ongoing investigations and fresh FIRs filed, the Trust seeks accountability for the shocking levels of embezzlement and misconduct. The situation underscores the urgent need for action against these financial malpractices to protect patient care and institutional integrity.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
