Pathanamthitta MP Accused of Defaulting on Rs 2 Crore Loan from Local Financier
In a significant development in Pathanamthitta, a local financier has publicly accused Member of Parliament Anto Antony of failing to repay a substantial loan of Rs 2 crore, which was allegedly taken seven years ago. The financier, N M Raju, who operates Nedumparambil Finance and Nedumparambil Credit Syndicate, made these startling allegations during a news conference held in Pathanamthitta on Saturday.
Allegations of Unreturned Funds and Broken Promises
Raju detailed that the MP had borrowed the amount with a clear assurance that it would be returned within a mere two months. Due to their personal relationship, no collateral was submitted for the loan. However, over the past seven years, Antony has only managed to return a total of Rs 20 lakh in two separate instalments, leaving a massive outstanding balance of Rs 1.8 crore.
Raju expressed his frustration, stating that he had approached the MP "a thousand times" to recover the money. He recounted instances where he and his daughter even visited the MP's residence, pleading for repayment, especially during times when his firm faced severe financial crises. Despite these desperate efforts, the MP reportedly showed no willingness to settle the debt.
Financial and Legal Implications
The financier revealed that he had refrained from filing a formal police complaint all these years, clinging to the hope of an amicable resolution. However, with his repeated attempts proving futile, he felt compelled to bring the issue into the public domain. When questioned about the nature of the transaction—specifically whether lending such a large sum without collateral could be considered unaccounted cash—Raju deflected, suggesting that the MP should be asked about how he handled the funds.
"I am merely stating the facts regarding this financial transaction," Raju asserted, emphasizing the transparency of his claims.
Connection to Sabarimala Gold Heist Scrutiny
This allegation gains additional context as Nedumparambil Finance has previously faced scrutiny from the Enforcement Directorate in connection with the high-profile Sabarimala gold heist scam. The raid was linked to allegations that former Sabarimala tanthri Kandararu Rajeevaru had deposited money with the firm, adding a layer of complexity to Raju's financial dealings.
MP's Defense and Counterclaims
In response, MP Anto Antony offered a contrasting narrative. He acknowledged that Raju had assisted him during the 2019 elections, as Raju was then a UDF leader. Antony claimed that he perceived the financial assistance as a donation for election expenses, not a loan, and stated that he had returned the money when Raju requested it.
"I do not know about the Rs 2 crore. I am campaigning with a small amount of money. I thought it was a donation given during the election. When Raju asked me to return it, I gave it back," Antony explained. He also noted that Raju is now aligned with the LDF, implying potential political motivations behind the allegations.
Antony further advised Raju to pursue legal avenues if he genuinely seeks to recover any funds, though he did not disclose the exact amount he received from the financier. This ongoing dispute highlights not only personal financial grievances but also the intricate intersections of politics, finance, and accountability in the region.
