The government’s move to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has faced stiff criticism from various quarters of civil society. Many have demanded a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Former Lokayukta N. Santosh Hegde said only a CBI probe could be really independent. “All the State police officials, including members of the SIT, come under the purview of the Lokayukta and hence, it would not be completely free in principle. In my opinion, the government should have ordered a CBI probe,” he said.
Social activist S.R. Hiremath also concurred with Mr. Hegde and said he would soon petition the Governor to order a CBI probe. He said a SIT probe with the Lokayukta still functioning and discharging his duties does not instil confidence of a fair probe.
The Opposition Bharatiya Janatha Party and Janatha Dal (Secular) have demanded that Lokayukta Y. Bhaskar Rao resign immediately.
Former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda said the Karnataka Lokayukta was a role model for the country for its anti-corruption crusades. However, the recent developments in the Lokayukta had marred its image. He said it was high time Mr. Rao resigned.
The BJP has also questioned the SIT formed by the State government and demanded that the probe be handed over to the CBI.
BJP leader and former Minister S. Suresh Kumar said the CBI would have been the right authority. Mr. Rao should “resign from his post at least now.”
Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council K.S. Eshwarappa alleged that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was promoting corruption by not ordering a CBI probe. The BJP will move an adjournment motion on the issue in the council on Wednesday, sources said.
However, freedom fighter and activist H.S. Doreswamy differed and welcomed the formation of SIT and expressed confidence of a fair probe. “The CBI is also not independent. It does the bidding of the Union government. The SIT now formed is likely to conduct a fair probe,” he said and added that Mr. Rao should immediately resign.
