NewsFlash Daily™
22 May 
Justice B. Veerappa warns of serious consequences if corruption continues unchecked across Karnataka departments
Mandya: Karnataka has emerged as the fifth most corrupt state in India, according to Upa Lokayukta Justice B. Veerappa, who expressed deep concern over rising corruption across government departments and warned of severe consequences if strict corrective measures are not implemented immediately.
Speaking after completing hearings related to pending Lokayukta cases in Mandya and Malavalli taluks, Justice Veerappa stated that corruption has crossed acceptable limits in almost every department of the state administration. He stressed that both government officials and citizens must actively participate in bringing systemic change to curb the growing menace.
Karnataka Corruption Cases Rise
Justice Veerappa revealed that a total of 1,281 corruption cases have been registered across 16 districts in Karnataka, highlighting the alarming scale of the issue. Referring to the Corruption Perceptions Index released by Transparency International, he pointed out that India currently ranks 91st among 180 countries with a score of 39 out of 100.
The Upa Lokayukta warned that failure to control corruption could lead to dangerous consequences for governance, public trust, and the future development of the state.
“Officials are appointed for public service and they must discharge their duties with honesty and integrity. Strict action will be taken against corrupt officers,” Justice Veerappa warned.
Justice B Veerappa Warning To Officials
Justice Veerappa strongly criticised dishonest practices within government machinery and said public servants must remain accountable to citizens. He reminded officials that the Constitution drafted by B. R. Ambedkar was created to ensure equal opportunities and justice for every citizen.
He further emphasised that corruption weakens democratic institutions and affects the delivery of essential services meant for the public.
Lokayukta Action Against Corruption
Appointed as Upa Lokayukta by the Congress-led Karnataka government in 2024, B. Veerappa previously served as the head of the Karnataka State Legal Services Authority. During his tenure, he reportedly helped resolve over one crore cases through Lok Adalats, setting a national-level record.
Justice Veerappa was also associated with policy discussions linked to the Karnataka government’s decision to provide a 50 per cent concession on traffic fines, according to a report by The Times of India.
The remarks have triggered fresh political and administrative debate over corruption levels in Karnataka, with opposition parties and civil society groups demanding stronger accountability mechanisms and stricter vigilance measures.
