The $3.6 million fraud involving TANA has sparked global outrage, with Telugu media and social platforms buzzing over the scandal.
Srikanth Polavarapu admitted transferring funds to Brihat Technologies, promising repayment but failing to deliver fully.
Much to the shock, he is now untraceable, raising questions about TANA leaders’ inaction and refusal to involve the police, filing cases against him.
Many members demand thorough investigations into past irregularities, urging fellow TANA members to protest.
Meanwhile, federal authorities are scrutinizing misuse of corporate matching grants, with California's Santa Clara DA cracking down on related fraud.
Despite public pressure, TANA leaders appear indifferent, hoping the issue fades with time. But that is not the solution.
The Telugu community in America has seen remarkable growth and financial success over the past 15 years.
Telugu associations like TANA, ATA and NATS now host conferences costing $3–4 million, up from $1 million before 2010, with sponsorships increasingly coming from Telugu-owned businesses in America.
TANA alone added 35,000 members in a few months, reflecting the community’s prosperity. Younger leaders in their 30s and 40s are now driving service initiatives, replacing the older leadership of previous decades.
However, concerns over financial mismanagement have emerged, with reports of fraud in TANA and NATA, prompting federal investigations.
Many urge TANA to act transparently, involve the police, and address past irregularities to maintain trust within the growing Telugu community.
The diversion of TANA funds occurred due to two main reasons- internal divisions among leadership, which led to legal disputes and a history of leniency toward past irregularities, often resolved through compromises rather than strict action.
To prevent such issues, measures like requiring dual signatures for payments and amending bylaws to eliminate leadership conflicts are necessary.
Members believe TANA, as a role model for Telugu associations, must take decisive steps to restore its credibility.
It is reported that TANA’s leadership is consulting legal experts and plans to release a comprehensive statement addressing the situation and outlining corrective measures.
