Ashish Lata Ramgobin, the 56‑year‑old great‑granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi, has been sentenced to seven years in prison by a Durban court after being found guilty of fraud and forgery involving a six‑million‑rand (≈₹3.22 crore) scam.

Ramgobin allegedly convinced South African businessman S.R. Maharaj to advance R6.2 million for customs clearance on linen containers purportedly arriving from India. In reality, no such consignment existed. The prosecution revealed she used forged invoices and documents - featuring companies like Netcare - to lend legitimacy to her story .

She is the daughter of renowned human rights activist Ela Gandhi and late Mewa Ramgobind, adding another layer of scrutiny to the case. The court also rejected her appeal, making the sentence final.

The glaring contrast between her famous lineage - rooted in truth and non-violence - and her conviction for lies and deception has made headlines worldwide. As she begins her prison term, this case serves as a potent reminder that no legacy places anyone above the law.