Karnataka: SIT to probe alleged COVID scam during BJP rule

The Karnataka Cabinet has decided to establish a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate alleged irregularities in the procurement of medical equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly under the previous BJP government. This move follows the interim findings of the Justice Michael de Cunha Commission of Inquiry, which was tasked with scrutinizing pandemic-related expenditures.Union Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy says, "I have no objection to the decision taken by the Siddaramaiah government in the cabinet, but it has been sixteen months since the government took over. While in opposition, Congress had been insisting that it would probe the irregularities during COVID in the procurement of medicines and medical equipment, but only now has the government hurriedly decided to conduct a probe. Let's see how far they succeed." I would like to know which 'Satya Dharma' you have followed, he asked.

Mysuru, Karnataka: Union Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy says, "I have no objection to the decision taken by the Siddaramaiah government in the cabinet, but it has been sixteen months since the government took over. While in opposition, Congress had been insisting that it would probe… pic.twitter.com/0aeDRjYg9d

— IANS (@ians_india) October 11, 2024

Earlier, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil briefed the media,explaining that the SIT will examine those involved and pursue necessary actions based on the fact-finding report. A cabinet sub-committee will also be formed to oversee the investigation process and ensure timely actions are taken.Patil emphasized that the SIT will address criminal elements highlighted in the findings. The cabinet sub-committee, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, will work alongside relevant officers to ensure thorough review and monitoring. The sub-committee includes ministers G. Parameshwara, Dinesh Gundu Rao, Priyank Kharge, Santosh Lad, and Sharan Prakash Patil.
The report, submitted on August 31, analyzed expenditures totaling Rs 7,223.64 crore. While no clear scale of misappropriation was identified, the commission recommended recovering Rs 500 crore from certain transactions. The commission had reviewed 55,000 files across 31 districts and four zones in Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) but is still awaiting additional reports.

(State Correspondent)