In a recent turn of events, Rahul N Ram and Amit Kilam, current members of the indie rock fusion band Indian Ocean, have issued a public statement in response to police complaints filed against them by former band member Susmit Sen and Sunita Chakravorty, the widow of another co-founder, Asheem Chakravorty. The complaint revolves around royalty disputes, with Sen and Chakravorty alleging various financial malpractices, including non-payment of royalties since 2020 and 2021, amounting to over half a crore rupees per person.
Rahul N Ram and Amit Kilam expressed their disappointment upon learning about the accusations through the media. They revealed their side of the story, stating, “We are saddened to learn from the media that a police complaint has been filed against us by Mr. Susmit Sen and Ms. Sunita Chakravorty. We have not seen a copy of the complaint as yet and thus cannot address it on its merits.” They emphasized their belief that the complaint is an attempt to pressure them into agreeing to what they perceive as illegal and unwarranted demands.
Delving deeper into the issue, the duo pointed out that the core matter is already under legal scrutiny at the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and has been ongoing for over a year. They explained, “There is a pending matter in the NCLT (National Company Law Tribunal) between the shareholders for more than a year. That case is still in process, and thus everything therein is sub-judice. It is quite a surprise to us that a police complaint has been filed with what appears to be the same issue considered by the NCLT. Filing a criminal complaint on what is evidently a civil law issue seems to be an afterthought and an attempt to arm-twist us.”
In their official statement, Rahul and Amit reiterated their willingness to cooperate fully with the police investigation and affirmed their trust in the judicial system.
. They said, “Nevertheless, we shall cooperate fully with the police in any enquiry they choose to carry out. We are quite aware that the complaints are essentially frivolous and mala fide, and completely confident about the legality of all procedures carried out by us.”
They expressed confidence that the allegations are baseless and politically motivated, designed to force a compromise. The statement from Rahul and Amit comes at a time when the band’s credibility and reputation are under scrutiny due to the severe nature of the complaints.
According to WION, Sen and Chakravorty have accused Rahul N Ram and Amit Kilam of various legal violations such as criminal conspiracy, breach of trust, cheating, misappropriation, falsification of accounts, money laundering, and embezzlement under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS). These allegations are not to be taken lightly, and they reflect the ongoing tension and conflict within the band’s former and current members.
To elaborate, the complaint highlights that Sen and Chakravorty have allegedly not received their rightful share of royalties or dues from the band since 2020 for Susmit Sen and 2021 for Sunita Chakravorty. The financial dispute purportedly involves a substantial amount exceeding half a crore rupees per individual. This revelation has sent shockwaves through the music community, bringing to light the contentious financial disputes that often plague long-standing bands.
The case has also drawn attention from fans and industry insiders who are closely watching how the situation unfolds. Many are eager to see if the legal system will provide a resolution that preserves the legacy of Indian Ocean, a band renowned for its unique blend of rock and Indian classical music that has resonated with audiences for decades.
In conclusion, the allegations against Rahul N Ram and Amit Kilam mark a significant moment in the history of Indian Ocean, highlighting internal disputes that have now spilled into the public domain. As the legal processes continue, the music community will be watching closely, hoping for a fair and just resolution.
