In a significant crackdown on alleged corruption, the Karnataka Lokayukta conducted simultaneous raids on the residence and office of a Panchayat Raj Department manager in Mandya district. The anti-corruption body seized assets worth approximately ₹1.5 crore during the operation on Thursday.
Details of the Lokayukta Operation
The raids targeted M. Shivakumar, who serves as the manager of the Panchayat Raj Engineering Division in Mandya. Lokayukta officials executed search warrants at his official residence in the Vidyanagar government quarters and his private residence in Gollahalli, Maddur taluk.
According to officials, the searches led to the discovery of substantial unaccounted wealth and valuables. The seized items include a significant amount of cash, gold and silver jewelry, and important financial documents. The total value of the confiscated assets is estimated to be around ₹1.5 crore.
Evidence of Disproportionate Assets
The Lokayukta's action was based on credible information suggesting that Shivakumar had amassed assets far exceeding his known sources of income. The investigation aims to determine whether these assets were acquired through corrupt means during his tenure as a government official.
Officials meticulously documented the seized items, which will undergo further scrutiny and valuation. The probe will now focus on tracing the origins of this wealth and establishing any links to misconduct, bribery, or misuse of official position within the Panchayat Raj Department.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
The Lokayukta has registered a case and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are examining bank records, property documents, and other evidence collected during the raids. The focus is on building a strong legal case for possession of disproportionate assets.
This raid is part of the Lokayukta's broader efforts to combat corruption at various levels of the state administration. It sends a strong message about the agency's vigilance regarding officials who may be exploiting their positions for personal gain, particularly in departments handling public works and rural development funds.
The outcome of this investigation could lead to serious legal consequences for the accused official, including potential suspension, prosecution, and confiscation of the illicit assets under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
