Vasundhara Oswal, the 26-year-old daughter of Indian billionaire Pankaj Oswal, has been detained in Uganda, sparking widespread media attention and raising concerns over the conditions of her arrest. Detained on charges ranging from economic to criminal offences, her case has brought scrutiny to local authorities’ handling of the situation and prompted international outcry.
Born in 1999, Vasundhara was raised in India, Australia, and Switzerland. She graduated with honors in finance from a Swiss university and is currently the Executive Director of Pro Industries, a leading ethanol producer in Africa. According to the company’s website, Vasundhara founded Pro Industries during her second year at university. In recognition of her accomplishments, she received prestigious awards like the Global Youth Icon Award in 2023 and was named Woman of the Year by the Economic Times.
The circumstances surrounding her arrest have stirred controversy. On October 1, Vasundhara was reportedly apprehended by 20 armed men at the family's Extra Neutral Alcohol (ENA) plant. Local authorities linked her arrest to an ongoing investigation into a missing person, though her family has categorically denied any involvement. Her family claims that the charges stem from a former employee who allegedly stole valuable assets and fraudulently secured a $200,000 loan, with the Oswal family acting as guarantors.
In a social media post, her family expressed grave concern over the harsh conditions she is being held in. They stated that Vasundhara has been forced to stay in unsanitary conditions without access to proper hygiene facilities. The post also highlighted her recent anxiety attack, which they claim went untreated. The family further reported that Vasundhara has been denied communication with both her family and legal counsel, with her phone confiscated by authorities.
The arrest has not only led to Vasundhara’s detention but also resulted in the apprehension of several colleagues, including the company’s lawyer, Rita Ngabire. In response to these developments, Pankaj Oswal has filed an appeal with the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, demanding swift action to secure his daughter’s release.
This is not the first time the Oswal family has made headlines. Originally from Punjab, they are known for their business success and philanthropy, particularly in education and healthcare. Recently, the family garnered attention for purchasing Villa Vari in Switzerland, one of the world’s most expensive homes, for an estimated $200 million.
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