Belagavi: The Lokayukta has initiated action against six government officials for alleged negligence in rainwater management following flooding incidents that damaged residential buildings in Bailhongal and Savadatti on June 8. A suo motu case has been registered against the assistant commissioner of Bailhongal, tahsildar, taluk panchayat executive officer, municipal council commissioner, revenue inspector and village administrative officer.
Personal Hearing Scheduled
Upa Lokayukta B Veerappa has directed the officials to appear for a personal hearing on July 27 and submit explanations regarding the reported water intrusion into residential areas and surrounding properties caused by heavy rainfall.
Legal Basis
A case has been registered under Sections 7(2) and 9(3) of the Karnataka Lokayukta Act in connection with damage to public property. The action follows an investigation report submitted by Lokayukta Belagavi unit deputy superintendent of police BS Patil.
Damage in Bailhongal
Due to the more-than-usual rainfall in Bailhongal city, water entered and damaged houses in Havaldar Galli, Channamma Samadhi Road, Kalmath Galli, Mahadevaswamy Mutt area and Maruti Galli. The report states that two-wheelers and other items were washed away during the first spell of rain.
Damage in Savadatti
The report also highlights the disruption caused by rain in Savadatti. Water entered 15 to 20 houses in Bennikatti, Savalbhavi oni, Girijannavar oni, Diwatger oni, Ramapur Site and Singarakoppa Road areas, damaging household items, including grains and clothes. It is also reported that rainwater entered the Renuka Yallamma temple.
Constitutional Rights
The right to public health, safety and a clean environment is part of the fundamental rights of every citizen under Article 21 of the Constitution. The order cites Supreme Court rulings stating that it is the duty of the government and officials to protect these rights.
