Udupi: A major financial fraud has surfaced in Billadi village, involving a Dalit woman named Susheela from Januvarkatte. She is accused of deceiving several victims by posing as the president of a fake organisation, Challenging Foundation, and a self-styled head of a Dalit group called Bheem Gharjane.
Victim Malathi Chandrashekar Molahalli spoke to the media, stating that Susheela promised her a ₹16 lakh loan with ₹8 lakh government subsidy, in exchange for an initial deposit of ₹1.6 lakh. Trusting her, Malathi transferred the amount.
Later, Susheela allegedly demanded further amounts under the pretext of GST charges, persuading Malathi to hand over her 20g gold chain and 4g ring worth ₹1.2 lakh. She later convinced her to give a 31g coral necklace valued at ₹1.5 lakh, claiming another deposit of ₹50,000 was needed.
When Malathi began seeking answers, Susheela reportedly cut off contact, and even threatened to file a false caste-based case when confronted. She claimed the pledged gold was placed in Brahmavar’s Ramakrishna and MCC Societies under Malathi’s name, aided by her associates Shridhar Poojary and Ganesh.
Kota police have filed an FIR, and initial investigations suggest Susheela may have pledged jewellery worth ₹35–₹40 lakh, duping several others. Authorities suspect a wider fraud network operating across the district.
Victims Jayalakshmi, Jyothi, and Amitha also spoke at the press meet, demanding justice.