Hinduja Family Members Sentenced to Jail for Exploiting Indian Staff in Geneva Mansion

A Swiss court has recently delivered a verdict that has shaken the Hindujas, one of Britain's wealthiest families. The court sentenced four members of the family for their treatment of Indian staff working at their Geneva mansion. The case has drawn attention due to the staggering fortune of the Hindujas, estimated at 37 billion pounds ($47 billion) by the Sunday Times.

Sentences and Charges

The Swiss-Indian family members, not present in court, received jail sentences on charges related to the exploitation of their immigrant workers. Prakash Hinduja, 78, and his wife Kamal Hinduja, 75, were each sentenced to four years and six months. Their son, Ajay, 56, and his wife, Namrata, 50, received four-year terms. The presiding judge in Geneva ruled that they were convicted of "usury" for taking advantage of their vulnerable immigrant staff.

Exploitation Unveiled

The court found that the Hindujas had exploited the inexperience and vulnerability of their workers, offering them wages significantly below the standard rate. It was revealed that the household staff were paid a mere 325 francs ($363) a month, which was up to 90 percent less than the going rate. The employees had little to no knowledge of their rights and were taken advantage of by the family's actions.

Despite the allegations, the Hindujas denied the charges and accused the prosecutors of targeting them unfairly. The family had previously settled with the employees who made the accusations against them, but the prosecution decided to pursue the case due to the severity of the charges.

Legal Battle and Fallout

The legal battle saw the prosecution requesting immediate detention for some family members, citing a potential flight risk. However, the defence successfully argued against this and announced their intent to appeal the ruling. The Hindujas, who have significant business interests across various industries and countries, expressed their faith in the judicial process and their confidence that the truth will prevail.

The Hinduja Group, with interests in oil and gas, banking, and healthcare, is present in 38 countries and employs approximately 200,000 people worldwide.