The Karnataka Cabinet is set to review a detailed investigation report uncovering over ₹7,000 crore in procurement irregularities related to COVID-19. The report, submitted by a commission led by retired Karnataka High Court judge Justice John Michael D’Cunha, highlights significant violations of the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement Act during the procurement of PPE kits and medical equipment.
The investigation was initiated in response to widespread allegations of financial mismanagement during the COVID-19 pandemic. The commission’s findings, which include missing files and procedural violations, point to significant irregularities that occurred during the tenure of the previous BJP government, when Dr. K. Sudhakar was serving as Karnataka’s health minister.
GP Raghu, a senior official in the state accounts and auditing department, was suspended after being found guilty of violating procurement norms while serving as the financial advisor to the Department of Medical Education. The inquiry revealed that he had made purchases without government approval, breaching tender rules.
The Karnataka Cabinet will discuss the report tomorrow, with sources indicating that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) may be formed for further investigation into the irregularities. The government remains committed to ensuring transparency and holding those responsible accountable.
