Investors suspect foul play

The sudden death of Sumathi (47), popularly known as the queen of chit funds, on March 3, created panic among her 300-odd investors.

The total money involved in the chit fund run by Sumathi is said to be around Rs 5.5 crore. Sumathi, a resident of Bandeppa Colony reportedly started a chit fund seven years ago and never cheated anybody.

Six months ago, her two brothers also entered the business to help her. They started Diwali chits that had a collection of Rs 14 lakh per month.

Chit books burnt

Sumathi's post mortem has revealed that she died due to an overdose of sleeping pills. Investors said she was healthy.
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Some suspect foul play and feel that the police have not been very thorough with the investigations so far.

Interestingly, Sumathi's funeral was carried out in a hurry without informing the relatives. "Sumathi's brothers and daughter Kalpana (24) have burnt the chit books.

They are now refusing to accept any responsibility and have also refused to refunds their contributions.

Her mobile has been missing since her death," said an Investor. Kalpana is refusing to speak to the investors and was unavailable for comments.

Accused dead

Byappanahalli police inspector K V Srinivas said, "As the accused is dead, we don't have proper leads in the case.

However, we trying our best. If any property belongs to her we will seize it and ensure justice is done to the victims."

The investors are now planning to meet the city police commissioner, Shankar Bidari. They are collecting documents from all the investors and say that now their only hope is, Bidari who might help them.