BANGALORE : Union members of the Karnataka Soaps & Detergents Limited (KSDL) have appealed to the Chief Minister to order a probe into cases of misappropriation of funds in the company.
“Over a period of nine months, a total of `4.63 crore has been misappropriated by certain top-level officials,” said G R Shivashankar, President, KSDL Employees Union.
He told reporters on Thursday that many officials were indulging in corrupt activities. “More than `4 crore has gone into the pockets of officials and this has happened with the help of banks and other officials,” he added.
Michael Fernandes, the trade union leader, said with the centenary year approaching, the government should pay special attention to the soap factory. “May 2016 will mark the completion of hundred years of the company, but current conditions are nothing to be proud of,” he said. “There have been instances where double payment has been made or there have been payments inspite of zero supply,” he alleged.
The union members said they had written to the CM to look into the matter. “These corrupt activities bring the company’s downfall at a later stage. We hope the CM takes action against the defaulters,” Fernandes said.
“The company has filed an FIR against the accused. But what about officials involved in the same?” said Shivashankar. Members planning to protest against the issue have put their plans on hold.
“We spoke to the Managing Director of the company on Wednesday and we hope he takes action. If we don’t get a positive response from the authorities, then we will be forced to protest,” he added.