Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, May 29: Mines and geology officer Krishnaveni, who has been in the spotlight for the wrong reasons since taking charge in the district, was caught red-handed on Wednesday, May 28, by the Lokayukta while accepting a bribe. Two other staff members from the department were also apprehended along with her.
Krishnaveni’s tenure in Mangaluru has been marked by a string of controversies and serious allegations, including dereliction of duty and shielding illegal activities.
Controversial statement over Pavoor Uliya
In June 2024, Daijiworld reported on rampant illegal sand mining that contributed to the disappearance of Pavoor Uliya. The report drew public outrage and protests, raising concerns over the functioning of the mines and geology department.
In response, Krishnaveni issued a press release dismissing the claims, stating there was no evidence of sand mining in Pavoor Uliya and calling Daijiworld TV’s video footage outdated. Her statement attracted widespread criticism, with allegations that she was protecting the sand mafia. District in-charge minister Dinesh Gundu Rao had even publicly warned her regarding irregularities in her department.
Lokayukta raids
In November 2024, the Lokayukta conducted simultaneous raids at her office and residences in Mangaluru and Chikkaballapur, following multiple complaints and allegations.
Minister confronts officer
During the KDP meeting held in February 2025, minister Dinesh Gundu Rao questioned Krishnaveni on the illegal sand mining issue. She failed to provide convincing answers and instead blamed the police department for lack of coordination.
‘Be a responsible officer,’ IAS officer tells Krishnaveni
During the same meeting, Krishnaveni reportedly did not sign the district commissioner’s meeting proceedings, prompting IAS officer Tulsi Maddineni to reprimand her and advise her to “be a responsible officer.”
Absence at Janatha Darshana
Krishnaveni’s absence during the Janatha Darshana programme held in Bantwal on February 5 further attracted criticism, especially as several citizens had gathered to voice serious grievances. She had neither informed nor sought prior permission from higher authorities for her absence.
Show-cause notice
A show-cause notice was issued to her on March 4, seeking an explanation within three days.
Bribery trap by Lokayukta
Despite multiple warnings, raids, and official notices, Krishnaveni continued in her post until she was finally caught accepting a bribe on May 29.
The case has raised serious questions about the lack of accountability and systemic lapses in governance. When an official continues to remain in office despite serious allegations—ranging from corruption to administrative negligence—it reflects poorly on the enforcement of ethics in public service.
There is now a growing demand for stringent action against not just the officer, but also for reforms to ensure that such lapses do not recur. The people of the district deserve honest, accountable, and committed public servants—not indifference and corruption.