Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has established a Special Investigative Team (SIT) to probe alleged financial irregularities in COVID-19 fund management during the previous Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) administration. The cabinet, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has also mandated the formation of a sub-committee to investigate administrative discrepancies.
The Siddaramaiah government has accused the former BJP administration of misappropriating millions in COVID funds, claiming that the state received a total of ₹13,000 crore for pandemic relief efforts. The SIT will specifically investigate alleged financial misconduct amounting to ₹7,223.64 crore that occurred under former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa’s leadership.
This inquiry was initiated after retired High Court Judge Justice John Michael D’Cunha submitted an interim judicial report to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. During a cabinet meeting where the panel’s findings were discussed, the decision to commence the SIT investigation was made.
The report highlights irregularities in the procurement of essential supplies, including masks, medicines, oxygen cylinders, PPE kits, and medical devices. Several purchases reportedly took place without government approval, raising significant concerns. Allegations have also emerged regarding manipulation of mortality figures during the pandemic. Companies involved in these irregularities are expected to face blacklisting.
Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs H.K. Patil noted that the report has recommended the recovery of ₹500 crore from the implicated parties. Following the investigation into alleged discrepancies in the procurement of PPE kits and medical equipment, the Karnataka government suspended a senior officer from the State Accounts and Audit Department. The official, who was serving as a financial advisor at the Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology, was found guilty of violating procurement guidelines and demonstrating negligence.
As the investigation unfolds, the Karnataka government aims to restore accountability and transparency in pandemic-related financial management, addressing the serious concerns raised by the alleged misconduct.
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