Why Has the ED Summoned the MD of Bikaji Foods in the Rajasthan Premier League Investigation?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Bikaji Foods is cooperating with the ED in the ongoing investigation.
- The company’s involvement in the Rajasthan Premier League was limited to sponsorship.
- All sponsorship transactions were conducted through legitimate channels.
- Bikaji maintains transparent documentation of all related payments.
- The investigation highlights the importance of clarity in corporate sponsorships.
New Delhi, Sep 9 (NationPress) Bikaji Foods International Limited announced on Tuesday that its Managing Director has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) as part of an ongoing inquiry linked to the Rajasthan Premier League, which is organized by the Rajasthan Cricket Association.
In the company's statement, it specified that the summons requires its Managing Director to appear before the ED and provide documentation regarding its transactions with the cricket association.
"Our company, along with other entities involved in the Rajasthan Premier League, has received a summons mandating the in-person appearance of our Managing Director before the authority, along with relevant records related to transactions with the Rajasthan Cricket Association," the company communicated in its stock market filing.
Bikaji emphasized that its participation was strictly as a sponsor for the event.
"The company's involvement in the Rajasthan Premier League was limited to sponsorship, executed in the usual course of business to enhance promotion and brand awareness. We had no influence over the management, conduct, or operations of the league beyond this sponsorship," the company clarified in its filing.
The company further stated that all sponsorship payments were processed through legitimate banking channels and are thoroughly documented.
"We also clarify that all the payments made by the company for sponsorship were properly recorded, backed by relevant documentation, and executed through approved banking channels," the FMCG company stated.
"We have kept comprehensive records of the sponsorship transaction, which will be submitted to the ED as required," Bikaji added, emphasizing that the sponsorship was undertaken solely for business promotion and growth strategy.
Bikaji assured complete cooperation with the authorities regarding this matter.
On Tuesday, shares of Bikaji Foods International Limited closed at Rs 773 on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), reflecting a decline of Rs 12.75 or 1.62 percent.