Sahara staff offer to collect Rs 5k cr for Roy's release

In a fresh dramatic twist to the Sebi-Sahara saga, an innovative idea was floated on Friday for collection of at least Rs 1 lakh each from Sahara employees and “well-wishers” to garner at least Rs 5,000 crore and secure group chief Subrata Roy’s release from Tihar Jail.

The money has been proposed to be collected in lieu of shares in Saharayn e-Multipurpose Society Ltd, which would be allotted to each contributing employee of the entertainment-to-retail business conglomerate, which claims to have a workforce of over 11 lakh salaried and field workers.

The contribution “appeal” was made through a one-page letter signed by directors of this Society and “associates” of the group, and asked each employee of the Sahara India Pariwar and their well-wishers to contribute Rs 1 lakh, Rs 2 lakh, Rs 3 lakh or even more, as per their wish and capacity.

When contacted, a senior Sahara official clarified that the letter has not been issued by Subrata Roy or by the management, and “it is only an emotional initiative from people in reaction to prevailing situation”.

He said this should not be construed as the Sahara group or its management asking its employees to make any contribution. “As Saharasri (the name Roy is known as in the group) has built this organisation as Pariwar or family, lots of such letters are coming from throughout the country,” he added.