Pranam and Jai Jinendra
It is with deep sadness that we once again write to you to address and refute the serious allegations circulating on social media, emails, and phone calls — accusing the Executive Committee (EC), and in particular three of its Office Bearers, of the criminal offence of money laundering.
These allegations are entirely false, misleading, and maliciously fabricated. We categorically and unequivocally reject them. The EC has comprehensive documentary evidence to disprove these claims, which has been explained to the accuser, Mr. Nileshbhai Dhanraj Shah. Despite this, he has chosen to spread these falsehoods across public platforms to create disunity and deliberately mislead the public.
To clarify, money laundering is defined as concealing or disguising the origins of money obtained through criminal activity, to make it appear legitimate. It involves the handling of illicit funds to hide their illegal source. None of the transactions carried out by OAUK meet this definition in any way.
The payment in question relates to the Oshwal-supported school in Machu Beraja, Gujarat — a project initiated by earlier Trustees. This school has achieved excellence status in the region, and all involved should be proud of this legacy. The funds used for this purpose were restricted donations meant solely for the school project.
When the school requested funds for building works and educational equipment, OAUK responded accordingly. As these government-run schools do not have their own bank accounts, the funds (£6,500 in Indian Rupees) were paid by a trusted volunteer who could facilitate the payment locally, wherein protecting OAUK.
A full receipt, detailed expenditure report, and photographic evidence of how the funds were utilised were provided by the school principal. Our Treasurer approved the reimbursement to the volunteer for expenses incurred — a standard and legitimate accounting practice.
We have asked both our auditors and the Audit Committee to thoroughly scrutinise the transaction and provide their opinion on whether this constitutes money laundering or any wrongdoing. The initial feedback from the auditors is, this is not money laundering, however, we await a formal opinion from them. We have had similar feedback from the Institute of Chartered Accountants confirming this is not deemed to be money laundering.
Unfortunately, these false accusations have caused immense distress and harm to members of the EC and their families. Many have endured sleepless nights, anxiety, and family tensions as a result of the constant barrage of online abuse, phone calls, and defamatory messages. The situation has escalated to the point where some trustees’ employers and professional bodies have been contacted, and private health matters have been intrusively probed — which is completely unacceptable.
Since joining the Executive Committee over three and a half years ago, we have faced repeated, unfounded, and often personal attacks from a small group of individuals claiming to act in the interests of OAUK. In reality, their actions are causing significant reputational harm to the Association, its volunteers, and their families.
What these accusers fail to recognize is that making accusations on social media—without full understanding of the facts or any credible evidence—can have serious and lasting consequences for those targeted. These are not just online comments; they affect real people, with real lives.
Many of you are aware that our President is currently attending to his mother, who has been in hospital for over two weeks following a serious accident. During this difficult time, relentless attacks have continued against Rumit, Nirmal, Meena, Avni, and their immediate families—through abusive emails, anonymous phone calls, and even in-person confrontations. This is both unacceptable and deeply distressing.
We also appeal to all those who manage or moderate social media channels, groups, or platforms to act with responsibility and integrity. It is your moral duty to verify the information shared with you and not to serve as unfiltered conduits for those who may be acting with malicious intent. We all have a shared responsibility to protect the dignity of individuals and the unity of our community.
Despite these challenges, the EC has remained focused on serving members and bringing positive change across all portfolios. We are deeply grateful to the many hundreds of members who have expressed appreciation and pride in the Association’s progress.
However, the continuous harassment, misinformation, and hostility from a small minority have taken a toll on our wellbeing. We are all human, and there is a limit to how much any volunteer can endure.
As Trustees, our energy should be devoted to advancing OAUK’s mission — not be distracted to defending ourselves from baseless accusations.
Therefore, in the best interests of the Association, the EC has decided to convene a Special General Meeting (SGM) to allow members a say in whether they wish to retain confidence in the current EC.
OAUK belongs to its members, and it is right that you decide on who the trustees should be to uphold the objectives of our Samaj. The decision is now yours.
Further details of the SGM will be shared in due course.
With respect and sincerity,
On behalf of the Executive Committee
Oshwal Association of the UK