The Gujarat Police opposed anticipatory bail given to social activist Teesta Setalvad and her husband by the Supreme Court, accusing the couple of misappropriating charity funds meant for rehabilitation of the 2002 Godhra riots victims for their personal use.
In an affidavit before the apex court, the Gujarat Police said the couple allegedly diverted funds collected through their trusts — Sabrang Trust and Citizen for Justice and Peace (CJP).
It said the probe into the case of alleged embezzlement of funds for a museum at Gulbarg society, devastated in the 2002 riots, revealed that expenses of “very personal nature” have been debited by them under the head “Secular Education” or “Legal Aid Expenses.”
It said the probe is supported by evidence like vouchers having dates and amounts incurred on consumption of liquor, dining out and purchase of personal items, from novels to phone and clothes.
The affidavit said 45 per cent of total funds received by the Sabrang Trust in 2008-13 have gone to Setalvad and her husband either directly or through Sabrang Communication Pvt Limited (SCPPL) which was fully owned by them.
Police have accused the couple of non-cooperation and supplying limited documents.