Apple has reportedly fired several Indian employees in the US for allegedly abusing the company’s matching subsidy program. The program allows Apple to match employees’ charitable contributions to eligible organizations. Some employees are suspected of colluding with certain charities to fabricate donation records and divert matching funds to themselves, the TOI report said.
Investigation and affected organizations Media reports suggest that up to 185 employees were affected, but this number is unconfirmed. The Telugu Language Association of North America (TANA) has come under intense scrutiny in connection with allegations of misuse of corporate matching subsidies, including one from Apple. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating TANA along with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), the people said.
Court Subpoena Issued to TANA The U.S. District Court issued a subpoena to TANA on December 12, requiring the organization to submit grand jury testimony by December 26. However, TANA reportedly received a one-month extension to comply. The subpoena seeks extensive documentation from 2019 to 2024, including donation records, financial expenditures, and internal accounting and auditing policies. Also requested are records of board meetings, subcommittee sessions, and related materials.
Scope of investigation The court order specifies that TANA must provide details of all donations received, including corporate matching funds, as well as the basis for expenditure and bank account details. Although the exact details of the probe remain unclear, sources say it is part of a broader probe into possible misappropriation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) matching grants. Responses from Key Personnel We are trying to contact TANA President Niranjan Surungavarapu, General Secretary and Deputy Executive Officer. President Naren Kodari did not respond to requests for comment, as he had not responded to inquiries at the time of publication.
Broader Implications This study highlighted the risks associated with corporate matching grant programs and the need for strict oversight to prevent abuse. Apple has not yet released an official statement on this matter.
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