Computer Operator Allegedly Diverts Rs 21.59 Crore from Maharashtra Sports Complex; Claims Senior Officials Pressured Him

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A massive financial scandal has come to light at the Divisional Sports Complex in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, where a computer operator allegedly embezzled Rs 21.59 crore from the facility's bank account. The accused, Harshkumar Kshirsagar, a contractual employee, is currently on the run.

According to an official from the Jawaharnagar police station, the misappropriation took place over an 11-month period.

Kshirsagar reportedly manipulated the official email address linked to the sports complex's bank account, replacing it with an address he controlled. This allowed him to access detailed bank statements and execute fund transfers. Police say the funds were diverted to another account before being withdrawn.

The fraud came to light when representatives of the sports complex lodged a complaint, prompting police to file a case against Kshirsagar and two others under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. While a female associate of the accused has been arrested and is being interrogated, the prime accused remains absconding.

Adding a twist to the case, Kshirsagar recently sent a seven-page letter to the police, alleging that he was coerced by senior officials at the sports complex into committing the crime. In the letter, received on December 26, Kshirsagar claimed that a senior office-bearer threatened him with a firearm and pressured him to change the facility's account details to facilitate the fund diversion. The accused further alleged that the officials directed him on how to use the embezzled funds, including purchasing properties and a luxury car worth Rs 1.35 crore.

Kshirsagar also claimed that he faced mental harassment when he initially resisted the fund transfers and withdrawals. The letter has raised suspicions of a larger conspiracy involving senior management at the sports complex.

Police are investigating these allegations while intensifying efforts to locate Kshirsagar. The case has sparked concerns over the lack of oversight and security in government-run institutions, with calls for stricter monitoring and accountability measures.