BJP MLA Chandru Lamani Allegedly Caught Taking Rs 5 Lakh Bribe for Minor Irrigation Works

BJP MLA Chandru Lamani was allegedly caught accepting a Rs 5 lakh bribe linked to Minor Irrigation projects. The Lokayukta police conducted the operation based on a contractor's complaint, leading to significant political fallout.

BJP MLA Chandru Lamani was allegedly caught accepting a bribe of Rs 5 lakh for Minor Irrigation department works, according to Lokayukta police. The Gadag Lokayukta police laid a trap based on a contractor's complaint. Officials confirmed the successful operation, stating that the accused was apprehended while taking the bribe. A case has been registered under Section 7a read with 7A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

The complainant, Vijay Pujar, is a Class-I contractor from Chinchali. Lokayukta officials revealed that the alleged bribe demand was linked to works under the Minor Irrigation Department, including constructing retaining walls along a road. The accused had initially demanded Rs 11 lakh from the complainant to execute the work. During the trap, Rs 5 lakh was accepted by the MLA.

Investigation and Arrests

Alongside MLA Lamani, his personal assistants Manjunath Valmiki and Guru Naik have also been detained in connection with the case. The Lokayukta stated that Accused 1, 2, and 3 have been secured, and the investigation is ongoing. Lokayukta sources mentioned that Lamani was taken to a government hospital for medical examination and would be presented before the Special Court for Public Representatives in Bengaluru.

Reacting to the incident, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah commented, "Lamani has been caught by the Lokayukta. What will the BJP leaders say now? They must respond, shouldn't they? It is easy to level allegations of corruption and bribery against others. But now a BJP MLA himself has been caught." He added that they would not obstruct the inquiry and would discuss it politically later.

Political Reactions

Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar sarcastically remarked on BJP leaders' honesty, suggesting they are corruption-free in India. He speculated that the Lokayukta might have received incorrect information and said he would comment further as the investigation progresses. Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, stated he was unaware of details but affirmed his party's intolerance for bribery.

State BJP president B Y Vijayendra mentioned he would respond after verifying facts. Meanwhile, Lamani's supporters condemned the Lokayukta's action, alleging involvement by state Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil and the Congress government in a conspiracy. They also raised slogans against Congress.

Lamani's Background

A doctor by profession, Chandru Lamani served as Shirahatti Taluk Hospital Health Officer before resigning in August 2021 to establish his own hospital. He contested and won the 2023 Assembly election on a BJP ticket from Shirahatti Constituency.

This incident highlights ongoing political tensions and allegations of corruption within Karnataka's political landscape. The investigation continues as authorities seek to uncover further details surrounding this case.

With inputs from PTI