Karnataka High Court Hands Over Valmiki Scam Investigation to CBI

The Karnataka High Court has officially transferred the investigation of the Valmiki case from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). This move mandates that all pertinent documents related to the case be handed over to the CBI for further examination.

The court has also instructed the CBI to provide a comprehensive status report concerning the alleged misappropriation of funds amounting to Rs 89.63 crore. The investigation revealed that former Karnataka Minister Nagendra, alongside his associates, misappropriated funds, with Rs 15 crore allegedly used for the 2024 Lok Sabha election and personal expenses.

The initial complaint highlighted major discrepancies within the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki ST Development Corporation (KMVSTDC). Allegedly, Rs 187 crore was funneled into a singular account under Nagendra's directive, with further laundering through shell companies using fake accounts. The KMVSTDC, established to uplift Scheduled Tribes via various welfare schemes, fell prey to this scandal.

(With inputs from agencies.)