Did the ED seize properties worth Rs 8.07 crore from ex-Karnataka Minister Nagendra in a Tribal Welfare scam?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, the ED has seized properties worth Rs 8.07 crore from ex-Karnataka Minister B. Nagendra in connection with a major Tribal Welfare scam. This case has raised serious concerns about the misuse of funds intended for Scheduled Tribe welfare. Stay informed as investigations continue to unfold.
Key Takeaways
- The ED has attached properties worth Rs 8.07 crore belonging to B. Nagendra.
- The investigation is linked to the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation Limited.
- Legal action is being taken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
- Six individuals, including Nagendra, have been arrested.
- The case highlights issues of fund misappropriation affecting Scheduled Tribes.
Bengaluru, Dec 19 (NationPress) The Bengaluru Zonal Office of the Enforcement Directorate has provisionally attached four immovable assets, comprising both residential and commercial properties, valued at Rs 8.07 crore, owned by B. Nagendra, a former Minister in Karnataka and Congress MLA, according to ED officials.
The ED stated that this action is part of an inquiry into the misappropriation and diversion of funds from the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation Limited.
This attachment is conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The agency has made extensive efforts to locate the proceeds of crime (POC) attributed to Minister Nagendra; however, these proceeds appear either exhausted or hidden.
As a result, the ED was compelled to attach properties equivalent to the value of the untraceable POC to prevent further obstruction of proceedings under the PMLA, 2002.
Four properties valued at Rs 8.07 crore have been attached, representing the equivalent value of the POC, the agency confirmed.
The central investigation body initiated its probe based on multiple FIRs filed by the Karnataka Police and the Central Bureau of Investigation regarding the misuse or diversion of funds from the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation Limited.
Previously, search operations were carried out under the PMLA provisions across various sites in Karnataka and other states.
As many as six individuals, including Minister Nagendra, have been arrested.
A charge sheet was subsequently filed on September 9, 2024, before the Bengaluru Principal City Civil and Sessions Judge, naming 25 accused persons/entities, including Minister Nagendra.
Earlier, movable and immovable properties belonging to other accused, amounting to Rs 4.94 crore, were also provisionally attached.
The investigation continues to unfold.
Minister Nagendra was taken into custody by the ED in July 2024 for his role in the Valmiki corporation money laundering case, linked to the alleged misappropriation of funds.
He faced detention under anti-money laundering laws but was later released on bail.
The Valmiki Tribal scam has been characterized by the alleged illegal transfer and diversion of funds from the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation Limited, an agency established for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes, into fake accounts and shell companies.
This scandal emerged in mid-2024 following the revelation of a suicide note from a corporation official, which claimed that crores of rupees had been embezzled.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the gravity of the allegations surrounding former Karnataka Minister B. Nagendra. The ongoing investigation by the Enforcement Directorate underscores the need for transparency and accountability in governance, particularly concerning funds meant for marginalized communities. The Nation stands firm in advocating for justice and thorough inquiry into any misuse of public resources.
NationPress
22/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What properties were seized by the ED?
The ED provisionally attached four immovable properties, including residential and commercial assets, valued at Rs 8.07 crore, belonging to B. Nagendra.
What is the basis for the ED's investigation?
The investigation is based on allegations of misappropriation and diversion of funds from the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation Limited.
What legal provisions does the ED invoke for these actions?
The attachment of properties was carried out under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
How many individuals have been arrested in this case?
As of now, six individuals, including Minister Nagendra, have been arrested in connection with the scam.
What triggered the emergence of the Valmiki Tribal scam?
The scam came to light following a suicide note from a corporation official claiming large sums of money were misappropriated.
