Massive Asset Discovery in Lokayukta Raid

On Friday, Lokayukta officials conducted a significant raid at the residence of Kalakappa Nidagundi, a former clerk at Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Limited (KRIDL). The raid unveiled unaccounted assets exceeding Rs 30 crore. Nidagundi, who earned a modest monthly salary of Rs 15,000, was found to own an astonishing twenty-four houses, four plots, and 40 acres of farmland. Additionally, authorities recovered four vehicles, 350 grams of gold, and 1.5 kg of silver. These properties were registered under his name, his wife’s, and her brother’s.

Allegations of Fraudulent Activities

Nidagundi, along with former KRIDL engineer ZM Chincholkar, is accused of embezzling over Rs 72 crore by falsifying documents for 96 incomplete projects. This revelation highlights the ongoing issue of corruption within government departments.

Wider Lokayukta Crackdown on Corruption

The Lokayukta’s efforts to combat corruption have intensified with raids targeting government officials suspected of accumulating wealth disproportionate to their income. Recently, searches were conducted at locations linked to five government officials across Hassan, Chikkabalapura, Chitradurga, and Bengaluru. Among those scrutinized were Jayanna R from the NHAI Division in Hassan and Anjaneya Murthy M from the Rural Drinking Water and Sanitisation Department in Chikkabalapura.

High-Profile Raids Yield Significant Discoveries

On July 23, the Lokayukta executed searches at premises associated with eight officials, including an IAS officer. These operations uncovered assets worth Rs 37.42 crore across 41 locations in districts like Bengaluru Urban and Mysuru. Notably, IAS officer Vasanthi Amar B V was found with assets valued at Rs 9.03 crore during searches related to her role in the Bengaluru Sub-urban Railway Project.

Implications for Anti-Corruption Efforts

These raids underscore the Lokayukta’s commitment to addressing corruption within government ranks. The findings not only reveal significant financial discrepancies but also emphasize the need for continued vigilance and accountability in public service.