Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Nov 7: Former MLA Raghupathi Bhat has publicly accepted a challenge to take an oath at the Karamballi Sri Venkataramana Temple on November 9, over a private bank fraud case.

Raghupathi Bhat, former MLA, addressing the media in the press meet held on Thursday, November 7, said, “Victims who had taken loans from the private bank approached me regarding a scam involving the bank. They had previously staged protests demanding an investigation and justice. They asked me to join their protest, but I declined, fearing it would turn into a political issue. Initially, I thought it was a small matter. However, as I reviewed their appeals and heard about their struggles, I realized the issue was much larger. I then issued a statement on social media calling for an investigation to ensure justice for the victims. Following this, I received a letter from the private bank against me."

Speaking about the challenge from the private bank, Raghupathi Bhat stated, “All the victims are ready to swear before God regarding the issue, and a date and time have been fixed for this. The bank’s letter claimed that I should swear before God, and they circulated this on social media. In response, I clarified that I would act as a mediator, allowing the victims themselves to take the oath, which was also shared on social media. Later, I received another letter from the bank referencing my dignity and urging me to be present for the oath-taking on November 9.”

Raghupathi Bhat explained, “The fraud has occurred in three main ways. In the first case, middlemen visited victims’ homes during the COVID era, offering loans of Rs 20,000 in cash without any legal documentation, and collected EMI Rs 900 in cash from each person. Later, these victims received share certificates, only to find out that loans of Rs 2 lakh had been issued in their names without their knowledge. In another instance, signatures appeared on documents for individuals who are illiterate and use thumb impressions. Additionally, about 13 people were given loans under a scheme for fishermen, but they never received any money from the bank.”

“It is the duty of the bank manager to provide a solution, and the responsibility of the head office and the committee to oversee these matters,” Raghupathi Bhat stated. “To support the victims, I will appoint an advocate and pursue legal action. If the bank has committed fraud, the government must step in and appoint a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to thoroughly investigate the case. At the oath-taking, the relevant documents and those who approved the loans must be present. All FIRs filed by victims have been put on hold, but cases have been filed against those fighting for justice. Such incidents should not happen in Udupi,” Ragupathi Bhat added.

Several victims of the alleged fraud case attended the press conference, reiterating their calls for justice and accountability from the bank.