Karnataka SIT to probe Rs 7,000 crore Covid 'scam' under Bommai government

The Karnataka Cabinet has decided to establish a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate alleged irregularities in the procurement of medical equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly under the previous BJP government. This move follows the interim findings of the Justice Michael de Cunha Commission of Inquiry, which was tasked with scrutinizing pandemic-related expenditures.

Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil briefed the media on Thursday, explaining that the SIT will examine those involved and pursue necessary actions based on the fact-finding report. A cabinet sub-committee will also be formed to oversee the investigation process and ensure timely actions are taken.

The report, submitted on August 31, analyzed expenditures totaling Rs 7,223.64 crore. While no clear scale of misappropriation was identified, the commission recommended recovering Rs 500 crore from certain transactions. The commission had reviewed 55,000 files across 31 districts and four zones in Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) but is still awaiting additional reports.