Bengaluru: The Congress government led by CM Siddaramaiah, which came to power campaigning against corruption with the slogan ‘Pay CM, Say CM’, is now facing a challenge with the ‘Handigund Case’. The Citizen Rights Foundation, which is fighting a nationwide legal battle against corruption, has highlighted the shortcomings of the Siddaramaiah government in the corruption allegations against KAS officer Balappa Handigund. A complaint has been filed with the Governor seeking an investigation into the KIADB scam.
Serious allegations have emerged against KAS officer Balappa Handigund, currently a special land acquisition officer at KIADB, for illegally acquiring land around Devanahalli near Bengaluru and irregularities in compensation distribution. Citizen Rights Foundation President K.A. Paul filed a complaint with the Chief Minister on September 12, requesting a high-level investigation under court supervision. Additionally, a complaint was filed with the Lokayukta on October 10 seeking an investigation into these corruption allegations.
With no response from the state government or the Lokayukta, K.A. Paul has submitted a complaint to the Enforcement Directorate, which has started examining the case.
However, K.A. Paul accused CM Siddaramaiah and the Industries Minister of shielding Balappa Handigund, and on Saturday (01/11/2025), he submitted a complaint to the Governor of Karnataka seeking directions for an investigation into the allegations against Handigund.
Despite facing several corruption cases, Balappa Handigund, a powerful officer, continues in his position at KIADB, raising concerns about the potential destruction of evidence related to the scandals. K.A. Paul has highlighted this issue in his complaint to the Governor.