Karnataka Raita Sena Demands Probe into Rs 2,168 Crore Malaprabha Canal Corruption
In a significant development, Veeresh Sobaradmath, the state president of the Raita Sena Karnataka, has made a formal appeal to the Karnataka Lokayukta department and the state government. He has called for the immediate formation of a committee comprising five competent officers to investigate alleged large-scale corruption in the implementation of the Malaprabha right bank and left bank canal redevelopment work.
Urgent 10-Day Deadline for Investigation
Speaking to reporters in Hubballi on Tuesday, Sobaradmath issued a stern ultimatum, demanding that the investigation be completed within 10 days. He warned that if a quick response is not forthcoming, the organization will pursue a dual strategy of public protest and legal recourse.
"If we do not get a quick response, then we will approach the court. One section will hold a continuous protest in front of the department concerned, and the other will definitely take legal action," Sobaradmath stated emphatically.
Allegations of Widespread Corruption and Poor Quality
The Malaprabha canal redevelopment project, executed at a staggering cost of Rs 2,168.3 crore, is under intense scrutiny. Sobaradmath alleges that the quality of work is severely substandard and does not meet the required specifications. He further claims that funds were misappropriated for unauthorized constructions.
"The Malaprabha right bank and left bank redevelopment work was done at a cost of Rs 2,168.3 crore. However, the quality of work is poor. Even though it is not in the DPR, a tourist temple and an inspection bungalow were built with this money. This work is also of poor quality," he complained.
Suspected Involvement of 30-35 Engineers
Sobaradmath expressed strong suspicions regarding the involvement of numerous officials in the alleged corruption. He estimates that at least 30-35 engineers could be found guilty in this case. The Raita Sena is urging authorities to conduct a fair and impartial investigation to deliver justice to the farmers of the Malaprabha region, who are the primary beneficiaries of the irrigation project.
"We suspect at least 30-35 engineers will be found guilty in this case. Therefore, we request you to conduct a fair investigation and provide justice to the farmers of the Malaprabha area," he appealed.
Previous Complaint and Allegations of Compromise
This is not the first time concerns have been raised. A formal complaint regarding the poor quality of work was filed with the Lokayukta in June last year. According to Sobaradmath, an inspector conducted an initial investigation and reported that everything was satisfactory. However, he alleges that the inspector, along with the superintendent engineer of the irrigation department, attempted to lure him into a compromise agreement.
To substantiate their claims, the Raita Sena has submitted CDs containing audio recordings and photographic evidence of the substandard work to both the Lokayukta and the Chief Minister's office. This move underscores their determination to expose the alleged malpractices and ensure accountability.
The demand for a high-level probe highlights growing concerns over governance and transparency in large-scale infrastructure projects in Karnataka, with farmers' welfare at the center of the controversy.
