Allegations of Misappropriation and Fraud Surrounding Trust’s Activities Prompt Investigative Action
Lucknow– The Central Agency Enforcement Directorate has taken significant action by confiscating properties valued at 29.15 million associated with the Memorial Trust established in the name of former President Dr. Zakir Hussain. This development comes amidst allegations of misappropriation and fraud surrounding the trust’s activities.
The seized assets comprise 15 immovable properties, including agricultural land situated in Farrukhabad, along with Rs 16.41 lakh held across four bank accounts. The trust, embroiled in controversy, had its project directed by Loks Khurshid, spouse of former Union Minister Salman Khurshid, while Teyush Shukla acted as its representative and Athar Farooqui served as secretary.
The trust, established in March 2010, allegedly received funds without conducting distribution camps, raising suspicions of fund mismanagement. Law enforcement agencies have registered a total of 15 cases pertaining to this matter, leading to an investigation subsequently transferred to the state’s Economic Offenses Wing.
On December 30, 2019, police filed a charge sheet against the trust, alleging fraudulent receipt of Rs 50 lakh in funds from the central government. In response, the trust refuted all accusations, claiming to have conducted business operations and distribution of goods across various districts, including Etah, Etawah, Farrukhabad, Kasganj, Mainpuri, Aligarh, Shahjahanpur, Meerut, Moradabad, Bareilly, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Rampur, Sant Kabir Nagar, and Allahabad.
However, the investigating agency dismissed these claims as unfounded, asserting that the donation money was not utilized for its intended purpose but rather diverted for personal gain by the trustees, constituting a criminal offense. Based on evidence gathered during the police investigation, the Enforcement Directorate proceeded to seize properties amounting to 129.51 lakh associated with the trust.
The seizure of assets underscores the gravity of the allegations surrounding the Dr. Zakir Hussain Memorial Trust and signals a concerted effort by law enforcement agencies to uphold financial integrity and accountability in charitable organizations.