Kerala Human Rights Commission Criticizes Cooperative Department's Inaction
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has issued a strong rebuke to the state's cooperative department for its failure to take timely action against irregularities detected in various cooperative societies. The commission emphasized that prompt intervention could have prevented large-scale violations and protected investors from significant financial losses.
Petitions from Vellanad Residents Trigger SHRC Action
The SHRC took up this matter based on petitions filed by two residents of Vellanad, Balachandra Menon and Babu, who highlighted systemic issues within cooperative societies. Following their complaints, SHRC Chairperson Justice Alexander Thomas directed the registrar of cooperative societies to implement stringent audits and comprehensive inspections across all cooperative societies in the state.
The commission's order mandates firm measures to prevent the recurrence of such irregularities, aiming to restore public trust in these financial institutions.
Case of Mundela Rajiv Gandhi Residence Welfare Cooperative Society
The specific complaint that led to this directive involved the Mundela Rajiv Gandhi Residence Welfare Cooperative Society, where investors reported non-return of their deposits. A detailed report submitted by the joint registrar of cooperative societies revealed serious financial irregularities within this society.
The report disclosed that a criminal case has been registered at the Aruvikkara police station against 16 individuals, including governing body members and officials of the society. Additionally, the crime branch is actively investigating multiple investor complaints related to this case.
Financial Implications and Recovery Efforts
According to the official report, the Mundela Rajiv Gandhi Residence Welfare Cooperative Society currently owes approximately Rs 42 crore to its investors. Meanwhile, about Rs 37 crore remains to be recovered through various channels, highlighting the substantial financial impact of these irregularities.
The SHRC's intervention comes as a response to what it perceives as administrative lapses that allowed such situations to develop unchecked. By ordering comprehensive audits and stricter oversight, the commission seeks to ensure that cooperative societies operate with greater transparency and accountability.
This development underscores the importance of regulatory vigilance in protecting investor interests and maintaining the integrity of cooperative financial institutions across Kerala.
