No governance in Karnataka, says Lokayukta

Mangalore Today News Network

Bangalore, October 28: Lokayukta N. Santosh Hegde on Tuesday said there had been no governance in the State for the past three weeks.

Speaking to presspersons after delivering a lecture on corruption at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc.) here, he said the “plight of Karnataka’s governing body has become very shameful in recent days due to MLAs’ resignation and resort politics”.

The public should cultivate the habit of questioning leaders. “Ministers are preoccupied with their agenda. Files, including important ones, to be cleared are on their tables, gathering dust,” he said.

CD received

The Lokayukta office has received a CD pertaining to the alleged bribery incident where BJP MLA Suresh Gowda allegedly tried to lure Janata Dal (Secular) MLA from Gubbi S.R. Srinivas by offering him Rs. 25 crore.

The investigation is yet to be begin, Mr. Hegde said. Earlier, Mr. Hegde delivered a lecture ‘Process and Implications on Corruption’, under the IISc.’s Management Series Lecture.

Graft Act diluted

Elected representatives are fond of talking about their concerns over corruption. But, Parliament had diluted the Prevention of Corruption Act through an amendment that virtually nullified the powers of the Lokayukta and other investigating agencies in December 2008, he said.

Corruption cases can go on for 10 years to attain the stage of conviction. But, public memory is short. Hence, trials should be expedited so that cases are closed within six months.

He concluded the session by requesting for a more “transparent and accountable government”.