Mysuru Hotel Demands Payment for PM Modi’s Stay
A Mysuru Hotel, where PM Modi stayed during his Karnataka visit in April 2023, has threatened legal action over unpaid bills totaling ₹80 lakh.
The management of Radisson Blu Plaza hotel has warned of legal consequences if the dues are not cleared by June 1, 2024.
Event Details and Financial Discrepancies
According to The Hindu, PM Modi stayed at Radisson Blu Plaza during his visit to Mysuru to inaugurate the 50th-anniversary event of Project Tiger. This event was organized by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF).
The State Forest Department was tasked with organizing the event from April 9 to 11, with an initial budget set at ₹3 crore, assured of 100% Central assistance. However, the actual costs doubled due to the event being planned at short notice. Despite the Centre releasing ₹3 crore post-event, an outstanding balance of ₹3.3 crore remains unpaid.
Ongoing Disputes Over Payment
Despite repeated reminders from the State Forest Department to the MoEF, the additional funds have yet to be released. The costs increased due to additional activities required by NTCA officials for the Prime Minister’s program. Consequently, the event management company revised their quotation, which was disseminated to all officials via videoconference.
Central and State Government Communications
In October 2023, Karnataka’s Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) wrote to the Deputy Inspector-General of NTCA, reminding him of the unpaid dues. NTCA responded, indicating that the expenses from PM Modi’s stay at Radisson Blu Plaza should be covered by the State government. Another reminder was sent by the State Forest Department in March 2024, highlighting the unpaid hotel bills amounting to ₹80.6 lakh, but no response has been received.
Hotel’s Legal Threat
On May 21, the General Manager of Finance at Radisson Blu Plaza sent a letter to Deputy Conservator of Forests Basavaraju, reiterating the unpaid bills even after 12 months of service utilization. The letter also mentioned an interest charge of 18% per annum on the delayed payment, adding ₹12.09 lakh to the total dues.
The hotel management has made it clear that they will pursue legal action if the dues are not settled by June 1, 2024.
Share your news, articles, deals, columns, or press releases with us! Click the link to submit and join our platform today.
