Irregularities in COVID-19 Management: Karnataka Probe Report Reveals Large Scale Misappropriation

Karnataka Minister H K Patil revealed that the Justice John Michael Cunha panel found significant financial irregularities in COVID-19 management during the previous BJP government. The preliminary report, analyzed by senior officers, cites misappropriation worth crores and missing files. A comprehensive report will be submitted to the Chief Minister within a month.

Karnataka Minister H K Patil on Thursday unveiled findings from the Justice John Michael Cunha panel, spotlighting substantial financial irregularities during the previous BJP government's COVID-19 management. According to Patil, the panel has flagged discrepancies amounting to 'crores of rupees', citing missing files and various forms of mismanagement.

The preliminary report has been handed over to a committee of officers, including Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, to conduct a detailed analysis within a month. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah initiated the discussion on the commission's report, which spans five to six volumes. Patil noted that the final report will reflect the public accounts committee's observations and other crucial details.

Additionally, the investigation, initially set for completion in August 2023, has been extended by six months. The judicial inquiry covers procurement of medicines, equipment, and alleged oxygen supply irregularities during the pandemic. The state government has mandated full cooperation for the probe, promising transparency and accountability to the public once the results are finalized.

(With inputs from agencies.)