Ex-Councillor Athwal Denies Fraud Charges

Gurbachan Singh Athwal, 75, who previously served as a Labour councillor in Hounslow, has denied a charge of fraud by abuse of position. He appeared at Uxbridge Magistrates Court on 26 September, according to MyLondon. Athwal, who now sits as an Independent councillor for Heston East, lost the Labour whip following the announcement of the charges. He requested that his case be heard in the Crown Court.

Allegations Regarding Charity Funds

The prosecution alleges that Athwal dishonestly abused his position as treasurer of Sri Guru Singh Sabha Southall between 2021 and 2022. This charity manages two Sikh places of worship in Southall. The court heard that financial irregularities were noted in payments to contractors, suppliers, and petty cash. Prosecutors claim Athwal was 'double counting payments', leading to the alleged misappropriation of £12,682.

Athwal, who remains a trustee of the charity according to the Charity Commission, opted for a Crown Court hearing when given the choice. His legal team noted that the trial venue, Isleworth Crown Court, might need relocation due to its proximity to Athwal's ward, which is approximately two miles away.

Next Steps in the Legal Process

Gurbachan Singh Athwal is scheduled to appear next at Isleworth Crown Court on November 24. This date coincides with the next scheduled Hounslow Council meeting, an event Athwal would typically attend.