In a recent development that has sent shockwaves through India’s educational sector, Ending Clergy Abuse (ECA), a global organization dedicated to human rights advocacy and supporting survivors, has called upon the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India to investigate allegations of financial misconduct at Loyola College, Chennai.
Ending Clergy Abuse (ECA), a global clergy abuse watchdog, has called for swift action against the Jesuit-run Loyola College, Chennai, amid allegations of financial impropriety. Fr. Francis Xavier, former Rector of Loyola College, Chennai stands accused of involvement in the misappropriation of significant sums of taxpayer money, prompting ECA to petition the Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) to pursue appropriate measures.
ECA, boasting a membership spanning over 21 countries across five continents, is known for its relentless pursuit of justice and accountability in cases of abuse and misconduct. In a formal communication addressed to the Chairman of the UGC, the organization raised concerns regarding alleged financial irregularities at Loyola College, Chennai, and urged swift action to address the matter.
In a letter addressed to the UGC Chairman, ECA reiterated concerns raised by its Indian representative, Mr. R. Joseph Kennedy, in a complaint dated 17 December 2022. The letter reads as follows:
Dear Sir,
Ending Clergy Abuse (ECA) is a worldwide organization of human rights activists and survivors from over 21 countries and 5 continents. In our previous complaint submitted by our Indian representative, Mr. R. Joseph Kennedy, Dated: 17 Dec 2022 we presented compelling evidence and concerns regarding the alleged financial irregularities that have come to light, all pointing towards the misuse of University Grants Commission (UGC) funds by Loyola College, Chennai. The alleged misappropriation not only tarnishes the reputation of the institution but also undermines the integrity of the UGC.
Additionally, it’s important to note that a former two-time principal of the institution, who possesses critical knowledge regarding the misappropriation, has published a book outlining the scandal. This publication significantly reinforces the credibility of the claims and emphasizes the pressing necessity for a comprehensive investigation.
Unfortunately, since then, it is distressing to note that the primary accused individual allegedly involved in the misappropriation of funds, has officially fled the country and is currently residing in Switzerland. This development raises serious concerns about Loyola College, Chennai’s accountability and exhibits a pattern where individuals accused of grave misconduct evade legal consequences by escaping justice.
We implore the UGC to take immediate and decisive action to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders involved. This includes initiating a thorough investigation into the alleged misappropriation and scrutinizing financial documents to uncover the full extent of the irregularities.
We trust that the UGC understands the gravity of the situation and will treat this matter with the utmost urgency.
Thank you for your attention to this matter, the board members of ECA Global,
Murray Heasley | Timothy Law | Simone Padovani | Sergio Salinas | Janet Aguti | Gemma Hickey
The Commune had earlier published an extensive report by Abhinav Vinayak, a freelance investigative journalist, on the misappropriation of UGC funds.
Abhinav, who interviewed Rev Fr. Albert Muthumalai, a former two-time principal of Loyola College, quoted him as saying, “Such a great institution meant to educate students, with high ethics and moral values has become a den of unquestionable corruption.”
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