Chandru Lamani, BJP MLA from Karnataka’s Shirahatti Meeting constituency, has been arrested by the Karnataka Lokayukta after he was allegedly caught red-handed whereas accepting a bribe of Rs 5 lakh. The quantity was a part of an alleged whole demand of Rs 11 lakh.
Officers mentioned Lamani was first detained for questioning following a lure operation and was formally arrested thereafter. Two of his private assistants had been additionally taken into custody in reference to the case.
Based on Lokayukta officers, the bribe was allegedly sought to facilitate approvals associated to a minor irrigation division venture in Gadag district.
The work concerned the development of a retaining wall alongside each side of a street, which had been assigned to a contractor.
The complainant, Vijay Pujar, a Class-1 contractor from Gadag, approached the anti-corruption authorities after he was allegedly requested to pay Rs 11 lakh to safe vital clearances for the venture.
After verifying the grievance, the Lokayukta police laid a lure on Saturday. Throughout the operation, Lamani was allegedly caught accepting Rs 5 lakh, a part of the demanded quantity.
The motion was carried out by a group from the Lokayukta Police below the supervision of senior officers.
Officers mentioned the operation was performed following due process and below the steering of upper authorities to make sure authorized compliance.
TWO OTHERS DETAINED AT THE SCENE
Other than the MLA, his two aides — Manjunath Valmiki and Gurunaik — had been additionally detained on the scene and later secured for additional investigation.
Authorities suspect their involvement in facilitating the alleged transaction. All three are at the moment being questioned as investigators collect proof and file statements.
The case has been registered below provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Lokayukta officers confirmed that materials proof was seized in the course of the lure and that additional investigation is underway to determine the complete extent of the alleged wrongdoing.
The arrest marks a big improvement in Karnataka’s ongoing anti-corruption efforts.
The Lokayukta has reiterated its dedication to pursuing the case as per regulation and making certain accountability in public workplace.
With the chief accused now below arrest, officers mentioned the probe will proceed to find out the roles of all concerned and to organize the matter for prosecution.
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