Kochi:
In the wake of the sudden demise of Confident Group Chairman Dr. C.J. Roy, the company held its first official press conference to address widespread speculation and allegations surrounding Income Tax (IT) department actions. Managing Director T.A. Joseph categorically denied claims that IT officials harassed or pressured the late chairman, stating that such narratives are false, irresponsible, and damaging.
Speaking to the media, Joseph emphasized that the Income Tax Department is not an adversary of the company and that no coercion or misconduct took place during official inspections.
IT Raids and Death: “Baseless Allegations”
Rejecting reports suggesting that Dr. Roy’s death was linked to alleged harassment by IT officials, the MD said:
“There is absolutely no truth to the claim that Dr. C.J. Roy was subjected to pressure or harassment by Income Tax officials. These stories are completely fabricated.”
He added that the company strongly condemns attempts to sensationalize a personal tragedy for publicity or political mileage.
(Source: Company press conference)
“Routine, Friendly Verification” — Company Clarifies
Clarifying the nature of the IT action, Joseph said the process was routine and comparable to standard GST inspections.
- The officials behaved professionally and courteously
- No employee or director was abused, threatened, or mistreated
- The company fully cooperated with the verification process
“If any official had behaved improperly, neither Dr. Roy nor I would have remained silent witnesses,” Joseph said.
He also stated that the company is fully satisfied with the ongoing police investigation into Dr. Roy’s death.
Strong Criticism of Fake News and Social Media Campaigns
The Confident Group MD strongly criticized certain YouTubers and social media influencers for spreading defamatory content targeting the late chairman and his family.
“Hunting a person even after death is a barbaric act. Celebrating misinformation must stop,” he said.
Joseph expressed gratitude to mainstream media outlets for reporting responsibly and maintaining journalistic ethics during a sensitive period.
Financial Position: “No Debt, No Liabilities”
Addressing concerns among customers and stakeholders, the management asserted that Confident Group remains financially robust.
- The company has no outstanding loans or liabilities
- It does not owe money to anyone; instead, receivables are pending
- There are no external investors in the group
In a strong statement, Joseph said:
“If anyone claims to have invested money with us, we are ready to return it at double the amount.”
Projects Resume; New Leadership Structure Announced
The management confirmed that all projects in Kerala and Bengaluru have been fully resumed.
Going forward, the company will be jointly led by Rohit Roy, son of Dr. C.J. Roy, along with MD T.A. Joseph.
The leadership reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, continuity, and customer trust.
The Bigger Picture
As speculation and misinformation swirl following Dr. C.J. Roy’s passing, Confident Group’s official clarification seeks to restore confidence among buyers, investors, and the public. By firmly rejecting unverified allegations and reaffirming its financial strength, the company aims to move forward while safeguarding the legacy of its late founder.
