Massive Embezzlement Scandal at Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital Trust
The Lilavati Hospital Trust claims Rs 1,200 crore was embezzled by former trustees, with total misappropriation potentially reaching Rs 2,100 crore. Legal actions date back to 2001, with a recent complaint citing patient service impacts. A forensic audit revealed extensive financial fraud, prompting new investigations and calls for accountability from hospital officials.
The Lilavati Kirtilal Mehta Medical Trust, which operates the renowned Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai, reported an alleged embezzlement of Rs 1,200 crore by former trustees. Overall, the Trust estimates the total misappropriated amount could reach Rs 2,100 crore. The first FIR was filed in July 2024, although legal actions to recover funds date back to 2001.
In a recent complaint submitted to the Bandra police and the Enforcement Directorate, the Trust highlighted how these financial irregularities have hampered services for thousands of daily patients. Parambir Singh, the Executive Director of Lilavati Hospital and former Mumbai Police Commissioner, noted that the alleged perpetrators are currently based in Belgium and Dubai.
Further claims include accusations of witchcraft involving human remains discovered under the flooring of the trustees’ office, which were sealed and sent to police for evidence collection. A forensic audit conducted by the new trustees uncovered significant financial fraud and irregularities, marking this incident as a major scandal in the medical sector.
The audit identified issues such as unlawful financial activities, fraudulent investments, and substantial kickbacks. A new FIR was registered on March 7, detailing these findings. Additionally, an investigation is underway into a theft of valuable items from the hospital’s Gujarat facility, alongside claims from the IT department regarding fraudulent expenses amounting to over Rs 500 crore lodged in the High Court.
In response to the findings, Permanent Resident Trustee Prashant Mehta emphasized the severity of the misconduct and its implications for the hospital’s mission. He called for accountability and urged the Enforcement Directorate to act swiftly against those involved, citing the applicable provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
This ongoing case highlights the critical need for oversight and accountability within charitable medical trusts to safeguard their integrity and the services they provide to patients.
The Lilavati Hospital scandal reflects serious financial misconduct involving substantial sums of money. With over Rs 1,200 crore allegedly embezzled and further investigations into theft and fraud, the implications are far-reaching. The Trust is determined to seek justice and ensure that those responsible are held accountable, underscoring the importance of transparency in managing healthcare trusts.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
