PVR INOX clarifies ₹200 crore kickback report, says preliminary probe found no evidence

Multiplex chain operator PVR INOX Ltd on Monday (September 7) clarified that its preliminary examination into allegations of impropriety by certain employees did not indicate any evidence of kickbacks. The clarification came after a report about an internal probe into alleged ₹200-crore kickbacks.

PVR INOX said the two promoters received anonymous communications in early April 2026 containing allegations of impropriety by certain employees. The communications did not explicitly name Pramod Arora, but used certain acronyms or initials.

"The company wishes to clarify and inform that in early April 2026, the two promoters of the company received anonymous communications containing allegations of impropriety by certain employees.

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These anonymous communications did not explicitly name Pramod Arora but used some acronyms/initials instead. The communications did not provide any specific actionable details, such as instances, dates or names of developers who are alleged to have provided kickbacks," according to a stock exchange filing.

According to PVR INOX, the communications did not contain specific actionable details, including instances, dates or names of developers allegedly involved in providing kickbacks.

The communications were promptly forwarded by the promoters to the company for further consideration under its policy. Despite the communications being anonymous and lacking verifiable details, PVR INOX said it engaged external third-party experts to conduct a preliminary assessment as a measure of corporate governance.

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Meanwhile, Pramod Arora resigned on May 4, 2026, citing personal reasons. The company accepted his resignation subject to his acceptance of continuing obligations towards PVR INOX and the company reserving all its rights and remedies. PVR INOX said Arora was not asked to leave. The company had informed the stock exchanges about his exit through an intimation dated May 25, 2026.

"Despite the communications being anonymous and bereft of verifiable details, as a measure of good corporate governance, the company engaged external third-party experts to conduct a preliminary assessment. Meanwhile, Arora resigned on May 4, 2026, due to personal reasons," it said.

PVR INOX said it has policies, processes and internal controls governing its operations and stakeholder relationships and remains committed to conducting its business in accordance with applicable laws and its governance standards.

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"The company places the highest importance on strong corporate governance, ethical business practices and accountability across the organisation. The company has established policies, processes and internal controls to guide its operations and stakeholder relationships.

The company remains committed to conducting its business responsibly, in accordance with applicable laws and its established governance standards, while upholding the principles of integrity, transparency and accountability," it added.

Shares of PVR INOX Ltd ended at ₹1,157.40, down by ₹69.70, or 5.68%, on the BSE.