BBMP scam: Crores transferred to non-existent cooperative institution

BENGALURU: A scam has been uncovered in the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) wherein crores of rupees were transferred to non-existent cooperative institutions. A scheme, intended to help small entrepreneurs and those keen on self-employment, has been misused in the names of beneficiaries by creating fake documents and and signatures.

An investigation has revealed that a co-operative society was established solely to facilitate illegal money transfers. The BBMP’s Western zone officers have transferred substantial funds to these fictitious institutions in 2019-20 and 2020-21.

A complaint has been filed with the Lokayukta, seeking a thorough investigation into the matter. The Lokayukta has written to the government seeking permission to investigate nine BBMP officers from the Western zone, including Subesh, Gayatri, Devaki, Subbaramaiah, Geetha, Giriyappa, Kumari Kusuma and Linganna Gundalli.

The Assistant Commissioner (Administration) has written to the Joint Commissioner (West) to submit a comprehensive report on the matter. This scam raises serious questions about the misuse of public funds and the need for greater transparency and accountability in government departments.