Multiple Complaints Over Crowdfunding Funds for SMA-Affected Manshree, DM Says Investigation Underway, Fraud Case Possible if Charges Proven
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, October 2, 2026
The controversy surrounding the crowdfunding campaign launched to support the medical treatment of little Manshree Chowdhury, who is suffering from Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), has taken a new turn, with multiple complaints and an official inquiry now underway into the handling and utilisation of the funds collected for her treatment.
West Tripura District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar told journalists that an investigation is currently being conducted into the allegations concerning the crowdfunding funds and that Raja Saha and Dhruva Chowdhury have been called upon to provide information regarding the money collected and its utilisation.
According to the District Magistrate, both individuals have submitted written information in response to the inquiry. The matter is being examined by a designated committee, which is looking into the relevant financial and other aspects of the crowdfunding campaign.
Dr. Vishal Kumar further indicated that allegations concerning an HDFC Bank-related transaction, if found to be true during the investigation, could have serious legal consequences. If the allegations are established on the basis of evidence, a fraud-related criminal case could potentially be initiated against the persons found responsible, he said in response to questions from journalists.
However, the final determination will depend on the findings of the investigation and the available documentary and financial evidence.
Meanwhile, on the same day, two women reportedly approached West Agartala Police Station seeking clarification regarding the collection and utilisation of funds raised through the crowdfunding campaign for Manshree's treatment.
The complainants have reportedly submitted a written complaint seeking an examination of the manner in which the crowdfunding money was collected, handled and spent.
The complaints have added another dimension to the controversy surrounding the campaign, which had attracted considerable public attention because of the urgent and expensive medical treatment required by the young patient.
Since the crowdfunding campaign involved contributions from members of the public, questions regarding the collection, custody and utilisation of the money have naturally assumed importance.
At the same time, the existence of a complaint or allegation does not by itself establish wrongdoing. The facts will have to be determined through the investigation, examination of financial records, bank transactions, receipts, medical expenditure and other relevant documents.
Those who have approached the authorities with allegations have the legal right to place their concerns before the police or the competent authorities. Likewise, if complainants claim to have personally contributed money to the crowdfunding campaign, documentary evidence of such contributions could also help investigators establish the relevant facts and reconstruct the financial trail.
A transparent investigation could therefore help answer several questions—including how much money was collected, through which accounts or platforms, how much was actually spent on Manshree's treatment, and whether the funds were used for the purpose for which they were collected.
Amid the allegations and counter-allegations, the most immediate concern remains the medical condition of little Manshree.
The controversy has raised a broader and deeply sensitive question: will the ongoing dispute over the crowdfunding funds affect the continuity of Manshree's treatment?
The child's treatment should not suffer because of any dispute between adults. Whatever the outcome of the investigation, arrangements must be made to ensure that necessary medical care continues uninterrupted.
There are also understandable concerns about the possible emotional and psychological impact that prolonged disputes among family members and people associated with the child could have on Manshree as she grows up. Such considerations, however, should be handled sensitively and should not be allowed to overshadow the immediate medical needs of the child.
The present situation calls for restraint from all sides. Allegations concerning public donations are serious and deserve proper investigation, but conclusions should be drawn only after the relevant evidence has been examined.
If financial irregularities or fraudulent transactions are established, the law should take its course irrespective of who is responsible.
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