Karnataka govt to form SIT to probe irregularities in Covid-19 management

The Karnataka cabinet has decided to form a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the alleged irregularities in the management of Covid-19 by the previous BJP government.

The decision comes after Justice John Michael D'Cunha Commission submitted its interim report to the government.

Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil said an Inspector General of Police rank officer will head the team, which will only probe the irregularities and not the recovery of money.

The minister said once the Commission submits the final report, it will be forwarded to the SIT.

Karnataka CM asks PM to speak on alleged corruption in COVID-19 management during BJP rule

“The recovery aspect will not be taken up by this SIT. The committee may give its recommendation as recovery is concerned. The recovery can be done by a separate agency of the Department of Revenue because it will be like a recovery of revenue dues,” he said.

The Congress has alleged large-scale corruption in the procurement of medical equipment by the state government during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Justice D'Cunha Commission formed to probe the allegation submitted its report on September 1. According to reports, the Commission has recommended the prosecution of the then CM B S Yediyurappa and former Health Minister B Sriramalu for alleged corruption.

Siddaramaiah alleges Rs 2,000 crore graft in purchase of medical equipment during Covid

Earlier this week, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah alleged that a corruption of over Rs 2,000 crore had taken place in the purchase of medical equipment during the Covid-19 period.

The chief minister reiterated his allegation on Wednesday when he asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak on the alleged corruption.

“A Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kit that costs Rs 330 per piece was purchased for over Rs 2,100 per piece by the then BJP government in the state,” he alleged.