SGCCI and SAR Infracon Under Fire Over Pre-Navratri Commercial Events

Surat | Gujarat — The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) and its associated body, SAR Infracon Private Limited, are embroiled in a growing controversy after allegations surfaced that the AC dome of the SGCCI International Convention Hall at Sarsana, allegedly owned by SAR Infracon, was rented for pre-Navratri commercial events that earned lakhs of rupees.

The allegations were raised by Sanjay Ezhava, a lifetime member of SGCCI, who in a letter to SGCCI President Nikhil Madrasi and SAR Infracon President Bharat Gandhi demanded explanations on the benefits accrued to both organisations from the pre-Navratri events. Ezhava, claiming to be a stakeholder deeply invested in the chamber’s welfare, questioned whether proper compliance and transparency were observed in renting the dome beyond the stipulated Navratri days.

Media reports indicate that Ezhava’s concerns touch upon several critical points. The letter questions whether the dome is rented only for the official nine days of Navratri, or for additional days. It demands clarity on who bears the cost of electricity for extra days, parking charges — which reportedly range from ₹7,000 to ₹10,000 — and whether GST is being correctly applied. “If the organiser does not pay GST, who will be held responsible? These are questions that affect not just members of SGCCI, but public trust in the process,” said Ezhava in his letter.

He also flagged safety concerns, stating: “If pre-events allow more people than the dome’s capacity, who will be accountable if a stampede or fire occurs? There must be a clear provision in the agreement to avoid such risks.”

The trustees of SAR Infracon have reportedly rented the Sarsana AC Dome for three years at ₹5.20 crore through a tender. Ezhava alleged that the tender conditions may not permit renting for commercial pre-Navratri events to other organisations and questioned whether these activities were covered within the rental agreement. He cited specific instances, alleging that events by the Labgrown Diamond Association, PP Savani Group, Jainam Broking Ltd., and Surat Medical Consultant Association were held during pre-Navratri days without clarity on revenue distribution.

Responding to the allegations, Rajendra Chokhawala, Director of SAR Infracon, stated: “Everything is fine. Nothing is wrong or illegal. This pre-event is as per the tender conditions. Full rent is being charged for all days. Legally, they are allowed to organise pre-Navratri events. The tender includes 12–15 days for pre-Navratri preparation as part of the rent.”