Wed Apr 09 07:06:15 UTC 2025: ## Kerala High Court Denies Bail to Co-founder of Sri Sathya Sai Orphanage Trust in Fake CSR Funds Scam

**Kochi, April 9, 2025** – The Kerala High Court today rejected the bail application of K.N. Ananda Kumar, co-founder of the Sri Sathya Sai Orphanage Trust and a key accused in a massive fake corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds scam. Justice P.V. Kunhikrishnan cited evidence suggesting Kumar’s direct involvement with the primary accused, Ananthu Krishnan, and the Trust’s direct collection of funds through a half-price scheme targeting vulnerable individuals.

The court emphasized the significant scale of the fraud, noting that thousands of people were defrauded out of crores of rupees by the accused, who promised them household appliances at half price. Justice Kunhikrishnan stated that the court could not ignore the plight of these victims.

Further complicating Kumar’s case, the court acknowledged the investigating officer’s report indicating his involvement in 24 additional Crime Branch cases. The court deemed custodial interrogation necessary for evidence gathering in these cases, 15 of which already have formal arrests recorded in Thiruvananthapuram. The possibility of further charges against Kumar was also raised by the prosecution.

While Kumar’s defense cited cardiac issues, the court noted the availability of medical facilities within the jail, rendering this argument insufficient for bail. The court allowed Kumar to reapply for bail after the completion of his custodial interrogation.

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