Police summon Aviva India CEO in case of alleged religion-based discrimination
NEW DELHI – Indian authorities have summoned Asit Rath, the CEO of Aviva India, a subsidiary of British insurer Aviva (AV.L), for questioning in relation to a former employee’s allegations of religious discrimination, according to documents reviewed by Reuters.
The investigation, taking place in Faridkot, Punjab, comes amid other challenges for the company, including tax-related scrutiny over alleged illegal payments to insurance brokers, which Aviva has denied.
The summons issued on Saturday requests Rath and another Aviva official to appear in Punjab as part of the inquiry, stressing that their attendance “should be considered very important.” It remains unclear if the executives have complied with the summons.
Aviva has formally stated that the discrimination accusations are “factually incorrect.”
The case originated from a September 14 police complaint filed by Gurbir Singh, a Sikh and former employee, who alleged he faced discrimination and derogatory remarks related to his religion from company executives, according to police records.
Rath has not responded to requests for comment. Singh stated he has participated in the investigation but declined further comment due to the ongoing inquiry. The senior police official in Faridkot overseeing the investigation has yet to release a statement.
Aviva’s spokesperson in Britain reaffirmed the company’s stance, stating that Aviva India “strongly denies any discrimination as claimed and maintains robust policies for fair treatment of all employees.” The spokesperson stated, “We consider the complaint to be factually incorrect and without merit. As it is currently under legal review, we will not be providing further comment.”
Records indicate the case was filed under legal provisions addressing religious insults with malicious intent, an offense punishable by up to three years in jail.
The well-known domestic company Dabur Invest Corp. and Aviva Global have partnered to form Aviva India. Aviva increased its stake in the business to 74% from 49% in 2022, competing in a market dominated by LIC, which holds about two-thirds of the industry share.
