Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Feb 27: In a series of surprise inspections across various parts of Udupi, Upalokayukta Justice B Veerappa conducted raids that left officials on edge and exposed several irregularities in government offices and public facilities.
The inspection, led personally by Justice Veerappa, took officials by surprise. During the visit to the taluk office, he reprimanded a government employee who had reported to work wearing jeans, reminding staff of the prescribed dress code for government servants.
In another instance, a government employee who arrived carrying chit fund documents was questioned. Justice Veerappa expressed displeasure after it was found that the staffer had kept official government documents in his personal bag. Viewing it as a serious lapse, he directed that the employee be suspended and instructed the Udupi city police to register a case against him.
The Upalokayukta also heard the grievances of ex-servicemen who were struggling despite having government land sanctioned to them. He directed officials to immediately rectify technical errors and ensure the land is formally granted without further delay.
At the survey office, Justice Veerappa found improper and incomplete documentation, drawing sharp criticism towards the concerned officials.
In the early morning hours, the inspection team also visited the Malpe harbour area. The Upalokayukta raised strong objections over untreated sewage water flowing into the sea, expressing concern that fish exposed to contaminated water were being supplied across the country. He termed the issue a serious public health hazard.
Later, he visited the Sewage Treatment Plant at Nittoor under the Udupi City Municipal Council. The plant was found to have been poorly maintained for over a decade. Justice Veerappa expressed anger at municipal officials for their negligence and warned of strict action.
The team also inspected the Udupi government bus stand, where several irregularities were noted. A hotel owner was reprimanded for failing to display food prices. The Upalokayukta was also enraged upon noticing the condition of the utensil used for preparing dosas, questioning hygiene standards. He further listened to the grievances of sanitation workers at the bus stand and assured that their concerns would be addressed.
The surprise raids sent a strong message to officials across departments, underlining the Upalokayukta’s firm stand against negligence, corruption, and administrative lapses in public service.