Mohammad Azharuddin summoned by ED in HCA corruption case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a summons to former cricketer and Congress leader, Mohammad Azharuddin, in relation to a money laundering case involving the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA). This is the first such directive for Azharuddin, who previously served as HCA's president and is accused of misusing funds during his tenure. The allegations pertain to an alleged misappropriation of ₹20 crore, earmarked for procuring diesel generators, firefighting systems, and canopies for Rajiv Gandhi Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad's Uppal.
Azharuddin and former HCA officials charged with criminal offenses
The money laundering case originates from four criminal cases filed by the Hyderabad Police in October 2023. Azharuddin, along with other former HCA officials, was charged with criminal breach of trust, cheating, forgery, and conspiracy under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. These charges were based on a forensic audit requested by HCA that revealed fund mismanagement and diversion to private agencies between March 2020 and February 2023.
Azharuddin refutes allegations
Azharuddin has categorically denied the allegations, labeling them as "false" and politically motivated. He stated, "This is just a stunt pulled by my rivals to ruin my reputation." To recall, a Hyderabad court granted him anticipatory bail in three out of four cases last year in the month of November.
ED investigation reveals collusion and improper tender processes
The ED initiated an investigation into the matter based on three FIRs registered by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Hyderabad. The probe revealed that HCA office bearers, including Azharuddin, allegedly colluded with private parties to award various tenders and works to preferred vendors/contractors at higher than market rates without following proper tender processes. In many cases, advance payments were made to contractors but no work was done by them.
ED conducts searches under Prevention of Money Laundering Act
As part of its investigation, the ED conducted searches at nine locations in Telangana on November 21, 2023. These included the residences of former HCA officials Gaddam Vinod, Shivlal Yadav and Arshad Ayub, as well as the office premises of SS Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and its MD Satyanarayana's residential premises. The search operations resulted in the seizure of digital devices, incriminating documents and unaccounted cash amounting to ₹10.39 lakh.
