Karnataka BJP to Launch Digital Petition Against Minister's Smart Meter Fraud
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Synopsis
The Karnataka BJP is set to start an online petition to raise awareness about the alleged Rs 15,000 crore smart meter scam connected to Minister K.J. George. The campaign aims to inform the public and encourage reporting of corruption.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka BJP initiates a campaign against a smart meter scam.
- Allegations of a Rs 15,000 crore fraud involving Minister K.J. George.
- Public encouraged to report corruption.
- Complaints filed with CAG and Lokayukta.
- Call for accountability in the Energy Department.
Bengaluru, April 22 (NationPress) The Karnataka BJP has declared its intention to initiate a public awareness and online signature campaign on Tuesday to address the purported Rs 15,000 crore scam concerning smart meters, which implicates the Minister for Energy, K.J. George.
During a press briefing at the BJP state headquarters, 'Jagannath Bhavan' in Bengaluru, Former Deputy Chief Minister and BJP MLA C.N. Ashwathnarayan stated, “We aim to alert the public about the government’s blatant theft. Small and medium enterprises are finding it difficult to manage electricity expenses.”
He noted that complaints have already been lodged with the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) as well as the Principal Accountant General.
“We have urged for a prompt investigation and are making genuine efforts from all fronts. We are determined to send a robust message to those involved in persistent corruption,” he remarked.
When asked about the public's involvement, he confirmed that any citizen could file a complaint regarding this matter and emphasized that an agreement was established with a blacklisted company.
Ashwathnarayan alleged extensive corruption within the Energy Department. “If this is applied to current consumers, each will face a charge of Rs 1.5 lakh. If this impacts 2.5 crore consumers, just imagine the magnitude of the corruption,” he questioned.
“We have consistently highlighted the issue of the smart meter scam in the state. To bring this matter to a resolution, we have already lodged a complaint with the Lokayukta on April 21. We have effectively captured the attention of both the public and the government,” he elaborated.
He also suggested “potential corruption” in cable procurement and electricity acquisitions.
“Is there no legal accountability in this department? Even raising the issue in the Assembly proves ineffective. In a scenario where those meant to protect the resources are exploiting them, how can justice be served for the public? It’s a chaotic situation. When the protectors of the treasury turn into looters, where can we turn?” he inquired.
He further asserted that whenever the BJP addresses an issue, it pursues it until the end. “Ensuring accountability is one aspect. Raising public awareness by clarifying the issue is equally crucial,” he emphasized.
BJP Bengaluru North District President S. Harish and State Social Media Co-Coordinator Narendra Murthy were also in attendance.
BJP MLAs, led by the former Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and BJP MLA C.N. Ashwath Narayan, have filed a complaint against State Energy Minister K.J. George and others with the Karnataka Lokayukta on April 21 regarding the alleged smart meter scam.
