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Key Points

Karnataka's State Contractors Association has written a scathing letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah alleging widespread corruption in government projects. The letter claims that corruption has doubled compared to the previous BJP government, with projects being awarded through nepotistic channels. Contractors highlighted systematic issues in tender practices and pending bills totaling Rs 32,000 crore. The allegations are expected to trigger significant political debate and potential opposition attacks on the Congress-led state government.

Key Points: Karnataka Contractors Slam Siddaramaiah Over Double Corruption

  • Contractors allege 40% commission continues under Congress
  • State projects allegedly awarded to MLA and Minister followers
  • Rs 32,000 crore in pending bills create major concern
  • Tender practices criticized as systematically corrupt
2 min read

'Cong-led govt in K'taka more corrupt': Contractors' body in letter to CM Siddaramaiah

Contractors Association exposes alleged corruption in Karnataka government, claiming practices worse than previous BJP regime

"It is difficult to ensure quality of work when projects are subcontracted - KSCA Letter"

Bengaluru, Sep 27

In a setback to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the Karnataka State Contractor Association (KSCA) has written a letter to the CM alleging that the corruption under the Congress-led government in the state has doubled, in comparison with the previous BJP government.

In the letter signed by its president R. Manjunath and G. M. Ravindra, it stated, when he was the Opposition leader, CM Siddaramaiah, claimed that when his government comes to power, there would be no kickbacks.

The letter further alleged, the projects under Nirmiti Kendras and Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (KRIDL) have been allotted to followers of MLAs and Ministers. They in turn hand over these projects to contractors and demand kickback.

"It is difficult to ensure quality of work, when the projects are subcontracted to us," the letter underlines. The letter further pointed out, "We would like to bring to your notice that it was our fight against corruption that played some role in your government coming to power."

It can be recalled that the State Contractors' Association, during the tenure of previous BJP led government in Karnataka, made allegations of 40 per cent commission. The KSCA had also written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi then. The Congress party had made the 40 per cent commission main agenda in its election campaign against the BJP.

Commenting on the pending bills to the tune of Rs 32,000 crore, the letter mentioned: "Each time you (referring CM Siddaramaiah) give us assurances and direct officials to act. Out of our respect for you, we have been patient with the hope that you would solve our problem. But, until now, we have had no benefit from your government."

When it comes to the clearing of bills, the departments are not following seniority. Only 15 to 20 per cent of pending bills are cleared once in three months. The departments of Municipal administration, Urban development and Labour are indulging in corrupt tender practices, the letter alleged.

It further stated that the officers are converting tenders into packages to ensure that the contracts are awarded to their one set of powerful contractors and concerned ministers are turning a blind eye to it.

The development is likely to stir a row in Karnataka, and the Opposition is likely to launch attack on the Congress-led government.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone working in infrastructure sector, I can confirm this is a widespread problem across states. The system needs complete overhaul - transparency in tender allocation is crucial for development.
P
Priya S
₹32,000 crore pending bills! This is taxpayers' money. If contractors aren't paid, how will infrastructure projects be completed? Common people suffer due to poor roads and incomplete projects.
M
Michael C
While the allegations are serious, we should wait for the government's response. Let's not jump to conclusions based on one letter. Due process should be followed.
A
Ananya R
Same story different government. BJP had 40% commission allegations, now Congress is worse. When will Karnataka get a clean administration? We deserve better! 😠
V
Vikram M
The contractors' patience is commendable. They've shown respect to CM despite delays. Hope Siddaramaiah ji takes immediate action - this affects Karnataka's development directly.
K
Karthik V
Converting tenders into packages for favored contractors is the root of corruption. This needs CBI investigation. Public money shouldn't be looted like this.

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