As many as 128 of the 142 aggrieved depositors, who had filed separate cases with the District Consumer Forum against Vini Vinc Bangalore and its MD K N Srinivas Shastry and his agent (branch head here) Yadunath Kolar, have received a favourable decision from the forum.

The Forum has sent copies of its decision to the complainants under the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act. The decree-holders have already furnished details to t-he Chief Secretary, to the special legislative inquiry committee into the multi-crore scam, besides the Chief Minister and his deputy. But with the recent High Court directive to Mr Shastry to furnish details of properties and liabilities pertaining to the scam, speculation is rife about what will now happen to the aggrieved parties.

In a scenario where Shastry is released on bail, he may pay back the amount only to a few depositors “who have a high status in society”, it is feared. If, on the other hand, the High Court takes cognisance of the forum’s award, it is felt the depositors will be jointly and severally refunded their deposited amounts along with the agreed-upon interest (as shown in their respective deposit certificates) from the date of deposit till July 11, 2005, i.e., date of withdrawal of application and further interest at 10 per cent from July 12, 2005, till realization of the full amount invested.They shall also be paid a compensation of Rs 15,000 and cost of litigation. Both respondents are to comply with the forum’s order within two months.