Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru (MS)
Bengaluru, Sep 1: The commission led by Justice John Michael D’Cunha has submitted an interim report to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah regarding allegations of a Covid scam that reportedly occurred during the previous BJP government’s tenure. This submission has stirred significant concern among BJP leaders and MLAs.
The commission, under Justice D’Cunha, has accused the former BJP government of a scam exceeding Rs 7,000 crore related to the management of Covid-19. The report specifically targets Dr K Sudhakar, who served as the health minister during the BJP administration. It details alleged misconduct in the procurement of ventilators, oxygen equipment, Covid-19 maintenance supplies, rapid antigen test (RAT) kits, and overall management of the pandemic situation.
Legal advisor to CM Siddaramaiah, Ponnanna, along with ministers Priyank Kharge and political secretary Govindaraju, were present when the report was handed over to the Chief Minister.
The state government had established a commission, led by retired High Court Judge Justice John Michael D’Cunha, to investigate the Covid scam in August 2023. Initially, the commission was asked to submit its report by May 25, 2024, but this deadline was later extended to August 31 at the commission's request.
The commission has now sought an additional three months to complete its investigation. It remains to be seen whether the government will form a cabinet sub-committee to review the interim report's recommendations or present it directly to the cabinet for further action.
The accusations pertain to alleged malpractices during Chief Minister Yediyurappa’s administration, involving the purchase of ventilators, oxygen equipment, maintenance deficiencies, Covid-19 supplies, and RAT kits. Dr K Sudhakar, who was the health minister at that time, is specifically named in the report.
CM Siddaramaiah has shared this update on his X account.