What is moonlighting? This Indian earned 4 million rupees in the US and was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

News Topical, Digital Desk : Indian-origin New York resident Mehul Goswami has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for moonlighting. He is accused of working for a private employer while performing his duties as a state employee, earning approximately ₹4 million (approximately ₹4 million).

In fact, Indian-born Mehul Goswami was reportedly working remotely for the New York State office. This was Goswami's primary job. However, he also began working as a contractor for GlobalFoundries, a semiconductor company in Malta, starting in March 2022.

According to US media reports, the investigation against Goswami was reportedly initiated based on an anonymous email alleging that he worked for a private employer during the same hours he was supposed to perform his responsibilities as a state employee.

Responsibility to act honestly

According to a CBS 6 News report, Inspector General Lucy Lang said, "Government employees are entrusted to serve with integrity, and Mehul Goswami's alleged conduct is a serious breach of that trust. Holding a second full-time job while claiming to work for the state is a misuse of public resources, including taxpayer money."

15 years in prison

On October 15, the Saratoga County Sheriff's Office arrested Mehul Goswami on charges of grand theft, a serious Class C felony in New York that carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. Under a new New York State law, the charges against Goswami are not considered bailable offenses.
Inspector General Lang said, "My office will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable anyone who undermines the integrity of public service in New York State." According to a Times Union report, Indian-origin Mehul Goswami worked as a project coordinator for the state, and earned $117,891 in 2024.

What is Moonlighting?

Moonlighting is the practice of working a side hustle or side hustle while simultaneously working at your primary job. This is usually done to earn additional income or pursue personal interests.

Read More: China approves new five-year plan, stresses self-reliance to counter Trump's tariff war