Magistrate orders further probe into Dadi House 'fraud' case

The Metropolitan Court at Ballard Pier on Wednesday passed an order for further investigation into the Dadi House case. The tussle between the Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP) trustees and its former chairman Dinshaw Mehta dates back to 2013 over the sale of tenancy of Dadi House in Bora Bazaar area. The trustees had alleged discrepancy of Rs 20 lakh and accused Mehta of misappropriation of funds.

Speaking about the judgment, BPP chairman Yazdi Desai said, "The judge reviewed our applications and affidavits. We also submitted audio-tapes. Based on the evidence furnished, the judge was convinced that further investigation was required and proceeded to accept our appeal."

Dinshaw Mehta weighed in on the judgement, and said, "We initially opposed it, but now we feel police should investigate the matter. We welcome the judgement." In July, the BPP had organized a press meet to 'reveal' evidence that would shine the light on Mehta's 'fraudulent activities'. Based on Khojeste Mistree's advocate's request, the judge has set January 20, 2017 as the next hearing date to monitor the investigation's progress.

In 2013, the infighting took reached breaking point after the controversial sale of tenancy of Dadi House. While Mehta said Rs 45 lakh was paid, one of the trustees - Yazdi Desai - alleged that the sale was fixed at Rs 65 lakh. After this revelation, four trustees, including Desai, filed a complaint against Mehta for misappropriation of funds and obtained a stay from the charity commissioner stalling all property deals in December 2013.