The Telugu Association of North America (TANA), already reeling from the fallout of financial mismanagement, is now under investigation by federal authorities.
Sources confirm that the FBI, IRS, and Department of Justice (DOJ) have jointly issued subpoenas to TANA, seeking detailed records of its operations from January 2019 to December 2024. This includes member details, fundraising efforts, bank transactions, and executive records.
The subpoenas come at a time when TANA is already grappling with the aftermath of a fraud scandal involving Polavarapu Srikanth, who allegedly embezzled Rs 30 crore ($3.6 million) from the TANA Foundation.
While Srikanth has paid back a portion of the funds, TANA members remain in the dark about whether legal action has been taken against him.
Despite requests for clarity, TANA President Niranjan has failed to respond to inquiries. A board member confirmed the receipt of the subpoenas but expressed concern over the lack of transparency regarding the investigation.
Local representatives are questioning why such significant developments are being kept secret from board and executive members.
Additionally, ATA’s recent board elections were declared null and void due to irregularities and ballot theft, with a new election slated for February 2025.
