Hyderabad firm files cheating complaint against US-based Avanade over unpaid dues
HYDERABAD: A Hyderabad-based technology services firm has lodged a complaint alleging cheating, criminal breach of trust and wilful non-payment of dues by US-based Avanade Technologies following a contractual engagement involving a banking client in the United States.
According to the complaint, filed at 15.00 IST on January 7, 2026, Ramakrishna Rachuri, CEO of Hanker Systems (India) Pvt Ltd, alleged that Avanade Technologies failed to clear legitimate invoices amounting to $161,120 despite repeated follow-ups and contractual assurances.
Engagement through recruiter, contract assurances alleged
The complainant stated that Avanade Technologies was introduced through recruiter Rajnish Mishra, senior talent specialist with the firm. An authorised manager, Saurabh Gupta, lead manager – North America talent acquisition, allegedly executed an Independent Contractor Agreement and assured compliance with all terms, with communications held through official email and multiple phone numbers.
Avanade had shared a requirement for a senior Kony developer for Fifth Third Bank in Cincinnati, Ohio, initially on a remote basis. Hanker Systems advertised the role and identified Varun Bhasin, president of LBA Global Partners USA Inc., who was proposed at a rate of $152 per hour. The candidature was accepted on June 27, 2025, under Net 90 payment terms, the complaint said.
Consultant absconded, payments allegedly withheld
The project commenced on July 7, 2025, after an agreement dated July 3, 2025, between Hanker Systems Inc. and LBA Global Partners under Net 30 terms. The finalised billing rate was $140 per hour. Hanker Systems claimed it fulfilled all obligations, including timely payments to LBA Global Partners under the master services agreement.
After about 90 days, the consultant allegedly left the assignment without notice. The complainant alleged that Avanade failed to release payments despite invoices, reminders and resubmissions, resulting in outstanding dues of $161,120, causing financial loss and operational disruption.
Documents offered, recovery sought
The complaint names Rajnish Mishra, Saurabh Gupta and Avanade’s accounts and contracts team as involved parties. It also refers to Hanker Systems’ representative Preetham Reddy, who introduced the engagement through LinkedIn.
Alleging cheating, intentional financial fraud and mental harassment, the complainant stated that supporting documents, including contracts, invoices, payment proofs and email communications, are available for submission. He sought registration of a case, a detailed investigation, civil and criminal action against the company and individuals concerned, and recovery of $161,120, equivalent to ₹1,45,19,737.27.
