Did Karnataka Lokayukta Uncover Rs 18.20 Crore in DA Case During Raids?
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Synopsis
In a significant operation, the Karnataka Lokayukta has conducted widespread raids uncovering assets worth Rs 18.20 crore belonging to four government officials accused of financial misconduct. This investigation sheds light on corruption within the state, prompting questions about accountability in public office. Discover the details of this high-stakes raid and what it means for governance in Karnataka.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka Lokayukta raids uncover Rs 18.20 crore in assets.
- Four government officials are under investigation for corruption.
- Searches were conducted at over 21 locations.
- Immovable and movable assets were seized during the raids.
- Allegations of attempted destruction of evidence emerged.
Bengaluru, Dec 16 (NationPress) The Karnataka Lokayukta executed raids at several locations across the state on Tuesday, focusing on four government officials accused of holding assets that are disproportionate to their legitimate income sources, as per an official announcement.
During the operations, assets amounting to Rs 18.20 crore (Rs 18,20,52,710), which included both movable and immovable properties, were uncovered.
The Karnataka Lokayukta Police initiated search operations related to disproportionate asset cases filed against the four officials at Lokayukta police stations situated in Mandya, Dharwad, Hosapet, and Shivamogga.
On December 16, simultaneous searches were executed at the residences, offices, and properties owned by the relatives of the accused across more than 21 locations.
The raids targeted properties associated with Byresh V.S., Office Superintendent with the Panchayat Raj Engineering Division of the Zilla Panchayat in Mandya; Rajashekar Erappa Bijapur, Joint Director of the Vigilance Cell of the Agriculture Department in Belagavi; L.R. Shankar Naik, District Health Officer in Vijayanagara; and Roopla Naik S., Executive Engineer with the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Department in Shivamogga.
Information pertaining to the alleged acquisition of disproportionate assets was revealed during the searches.
Searches were conducted at five locations linked to Byresh V.S., which led to the discovery of immovable assets worth Rs 2.14 crore and movable assets valued at Rs 1.04 crore.
Movable assets included jewellery worth Rs 18 lakh and household items valued at Rs 70 lakh.
The total asset value identified in his case reached Rs 3.18 crore.
Searches at six locations associated with Rajashekar Erappa Bijapur resulted in the recovery of immovable properties, comprising three sites, three houses, and agricultural land, worth Rs 5.34 crore.
Movable assets totaling Rs 72.79 lakh were also seized.
Investigations at four locations related to L.R. Shankar Naik uncovered immovable assets worth Rs 4.20 crore, including 11 sites and five houses.
Movable assets valued at Rs 69.82 lakh were also found, including jewellery worth Rs 16.75 lakh.
Searches at six locations linked to Roopla Naik S. revealed immovable assets estimated at Rs 2.94 crore and movable assets worth Rs 1.10 crore, which included jewellery valued at Rs 84.09 lakh.
The Lokayukta Police have filed cases regarding disproportionate assets against all four government officials.
Reports indicate that one officer allegedly attempted to destroy around Rs 50,000 in cash by flushing it down the toilet during the raids.
This officer reportedly panicked upon seeing Lokayukta officials and kept the police waiting outside his residence for nearly half an hour before finally opening the door.
Point of View
I believe this investigation by the Karnataka Lokayukta is a crucial step in addressing corruption within the state. It highlights the need for transparency and accountability among public officials, reinforcing the idea that no one is above the law. We must continue to support such efforts to ensure good governance and restore public trust.
NationPress
18/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the Lokayukta raids?
The raids were initiated due to allegations against four government officials regarding possession of assets disproportionate to their declared income.
How much was seized during the raids?
A total of assets amounting to Rs 18.20 crore was seized, including both movable and immovable properties.
What actions are being taken against the officials?
Disproportionate asset cases have been registered against all four officials involved.
Were there any shocking incidents during the raids?
Yes, one officer reportedly tried to dispose of Rs 50,000 in cash by flushing it down the toilet when he saw the Lokayukta officials.
What locations were involved in the searches?
Searches were conducted in Mandya, Dharwad, Hosapet, and Shivamogga, covering residences and properties of the accused.
