Karnataka's Move: SIT and Sub-Committee Initiatives Reveal Pandemic Procurement Scandal

The Karnataka government aims to tackle alleged irregularities in pandemic procurement by establishing an SIT and a Cabinet sub-committee. Findings from a commission's report suggest substantial financial oversights, prompting recovery measures and criminal investigations. The government further plans infrastructure developments and skill corporation initiatives, strengthening state governance.

The Karnataka government has initiated significant measures in response to a report by the Justice Michael D' Cunha Commission, which highlights irregularities in equipment and medicine procurement during the COVID-19 pandemic under the BJP's regime. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) and a Cabinet sub-committee have been formed to scrutinize the alleged financial misappropriations.

Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil acknowledged the commission's examination of a Rs 7,223.64 crore expenditure, emphasizing immediate recovery proceedings for Rs 500 crore and blacklisting companies implicated in corruption. This preliminary report is based on scrutinizing 55,000 department files.

In addition, the Cabinet has cleared various initiatives, including extending the SIT's term investigating mining irregularities, approving high-tech market constructions, and creating the Karnataka Skill Development Corporation, reinforcing its commitment to state development and accountability.

(With inputs from agencies.)