Hyderabad advocate alleges ₹10 Crore microfinance fraud, death threats from Singer Mangli & others

Hyderabad: A city-based advocate has lodged a complaint alleging a multi-crore investment fraud and serious threats to his life, naming popular Telugu folk singer Mangli, her brother Shiva, and film director Venu Udugula among those involved.

₹10 crore fraud allegation

According to the complaint filed before the XIV Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Court at Nampally, advocate Singapogu Subbarao stated that his clients were duped into investing nearly ₹9.5–10 crore in fraudulent microfinance schemes.

The complainant alleged that the accused, including Ramavath Madhu, Bharat Chauhan, Shailaja Chauhan, Shiva, and Mangli, lured investors with promises of high returns through ventures such as import-export, real estate, and trading businesses under the banner of “Gokulanandana Infra India Private Limited.”

The victims were reportedly assured consistent returns until profits were generated. However, the accused allegedly absconded after collecting money from around 100 to 150 investors, switching off their phones and becoming untraceable.

Alleged abuse, pressure and bribery attempt

Subbarao stated that when he attempted to contact Mangli through a known music director, she allegedly responded with abusive and insulting remarks, including comments targeting his profession as an advocate.

He further alleged that after he shared the matter with the media, Mangli contacted him again, admitted inappropriate behaviour, and requested that her name and that of her brother be excluded from the case. She also allegedly attempted to offer money in exchange for withdrawing the complaint, which he refused.

Meeting turns contentious

The advocate claimed he was later invited for a discussion at the office of another lawyer in Panjagutta, where Mangli, director Venu Udugula, music director Suresh Bobbili, and others were present.

During the meeting, he alleged that he was pressured to drop the case and delete media interviews. When he refused, Mangli allegedly attempted to negotiate a financial settlement, asking him to quote an amount for withdrawal.

Subbarao maintained that he insisted on justice for his clients through repayment of their money, which was allegedly rejected.

Threats to life and intimidation

The complaint further alleges that the situation escalated when Venu Udugula threatened him with consequences if he did not accept money and withdraw the case.

Mangli is also accused of verbally abusing him and issuing death threats, including statements that she could eliminate him without leaving a trace. The complainant alleged that she invoked the name of a Union Minister during the confrontation.

Additionally, the advocate claimed that Mangli connected a phone call to the main accused, who allegedly issued further threats. Ramavath Madhu reportedly warned that no one could protect him, while Shiva allegedly threatened to stage an “accident” to kill him.

Attempted assault, continued harassment

Subbarao alleged that Mangli attempted to physically assault him during the altercation, prompting his associates to escort him away for safety.

He also claimed that the meeting appeared pre-planned and was held at a location without CCTV surveillance.

Even after the meeting, he alleged continued harassment through repeated calls, messages, and pressure via influential individuals, including politicians and community elders.

Case registered

Based on the complaint, a case has been registered under Sections 351(2) and 352 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), relating to criminal intimidation and assault.

Police officials stated that the investigation has been handed over to an Assistant Sub-Inspector for further probe.

Advocate seeks protection, Justice

Citing threats to his life and professional integrity, the advocate has urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and take strict legal action against all accused.

The case has drawn attention due to the involvement of prominent personalities and the scale of the alleged financial fraud.