Bengaluru Police Register Case Over Alleged COVID-19 Mismanagement Involving Multiple Officials

A complaint regarding alleged mismanagement during the COVID-19 pandemic led to a case being filed at the Vidhana Soudha Police Station on Friday. The complaint was lodged by Dr. M Vishnu Prasad, Chief Accounts Officer of the Medical Education Department, against several individuals and entities.

Dr. Prasad's complaint accused Dr. P G Girish, government officer Raghu G P, non-gazetted officer Muniraju N from Health and Family Welfare, and two firms—Laj Exports and Prudent Management Solutions—of misconduct. The complaint also mentioned unknown public representatives, government officers, and others.

Allegations of Misuse in Procurement

The complaint highlighted that during the pandemic, the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act was allegedly violated. This occurred while purchasing N95 masks, PPE kits, and other essential items through the Medical Education Department. These actions reportedly bypassed legal procedures.

According to Dr. Prasad, these government officials and others conspired to acquire these crucial materials improperly. They allegedly misappropriated hundreds of crores of rupees under the guise of managing COVID-19.

Inquiry Panel's Findings

The case was initiated following recommendations from an inquiry panel led by Justice John Michael D'Cunha. The panel found evidence of widespread corruption in COVID-19 management practices.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had previously announced that the government would investigate irregularities related to COVID-19 management. This statement was made a few weeks prior to the filing of the case.

The investigation aims to uncover any wrongdoing and hold those responsible accountable for their actions during the pandemic.