The Lokayukta police conducted simultaneous raids on 24 gram panchayats (GPs) in Dharwad district on Wednesday, following multiple complaints of corruption and irregularities. The operation, which began early in the morning, covered panchayats across several taluks, including Dharwad, Hubballi, Kalghatgi, and Kundgol.
Details of the Raids
According to sources, the raids were based on specific allegations of misappropriation of funds, fake billing, and irregularities in the implementation of government schemes. The Lokayukta team, comprising over 100 officers, seized documents, digital records, and other evidence from the panchayat offices. Officials stated that the evidence would be scrutinized to identify the accused and quantify the financial losses.
Complaints and Investigation
The action came after the Lokayukta received numerous complaints from residents and local activists regarding corruption in the gram panchayats. The complaints highlighted issues such as embezzlement of funds allocated for rural development projects, illegal sand mining, and favoritism in the distribution of benefits under welfare schemes. Following registration of the complaints, the Lokayukta directed the district authorities to conduct a thorough investigation. The raids are part of a broader crackdown on corruption in local bodies across Karnataka.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a Lokayukta official said, "We have gathered substantial evidence during the raids. Further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation. The focus is on ensuring accountability and transparency in the functioning of gram panchayats."
Reactions
The raids have sent shockwaves through the district, with several panchayat members expressing concern. However, local residents have welcomed the move, hoping it will lead to better governance. Dharwad Deputy Commissioner, who is overseeing the investigation, assured that strict action would be taken against those found guilty. The Lokayukta has also urged citizens to come forward with any information related to corruption in their respective panchayats.
This development comes amid a state-wide drive by the Karnataka Lokayukta to clean up local governance. Over the past month, similar raids have been conducted in other districts, including Belagavi and Vijayapura, leading to the arrest of several officials.
