By Namal Rajapaksa Summoned to Court Over Alleged Rs. 70 Million ‘Krrish Deal’ Misappropriation
Colombo—Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa, son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, has been summoned to appear before the Colombo High Court on February 18 in connection with the alleged misappropriation of Rs. 70 million linked to the controversial ‘Krrish deal.’
The Attorney General’s Department has filed an indictment against Namal Rajapaksa, citing financial misconduct and irregularities tied to the Indian real estate company Krrish Group’s investment projects in Sri Lanka. The case, which dates back to the Rajapaksa administration, has resurfaced as part of ongoing legal efforts to address financial corruption and ensure accountability.
The Krrish Deal Controversy
The Krrish deal refers to a high-profile investment project by India’s Krrish Group, which planned a luxury mixed-development project in Colombo Fort. The project, valued at over USD 650 million, was expected to transform the city’s skyline. However, allegations emerged that funds meant for the project’s facilitation were diverted for personal or political gains.
Investigations revealed that a sum of Rs. 70 million was allegedly funneled through various accounts linked to Namal Rajapaksa and his associates. Anti-corruption bodies claim that these funds were part of illicit commissions extracted under the guise of consultation fees. The case is one of several corruption allegations involving members of the former ruling family.
Legal and Political Ramifications
The indictment against Namal Rajapaksa marks a significant step in Sri Lanka’s legal battles against corruption. While Rajapaksa has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the case is politically motivated, the allegations have fueled public debate on the misuse of state resources during his family’s tenure.
Legal experts suggest that the case could set a precedent for high-profile financial misconduct cases in Sri Lanka. If found guilty, Rajapaksa could face severe penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment. His political future also hangs in the balance, as the case could impact his aspirations within the ruling party.
