Belagavi: The Karnataka Lokayukta has initiated action against six government officials for alleged negligence in rainwater management following flooding incidents that caused damage to residential areas in Bailhongal and Savadatti on June 8.
Source : https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hubballi/lokayukta-books-6-officials-over-rainwater-mismanagement-in-belagavi-taluks/articleshow/131863439.cms
A suo motu case has been registered against the Assistant Commissioner of Bailhongal, the Tahsildar, Taluk Panchayat Executive Officer, Municipal Council Commissioner, Revenue Inspector and Village Administrative Officer. Upa Lokayukta B. Veerappa has directed the officials to appear for a personal hearing on July 27 and submit explanations regarding the flooding and resulting damage.
The case has been registered under Sections 7(2) and 9(3) of the Karnataka Lokayukta Act based on an investigation report submitted by Lokayukta Belagavi Unit Deputy Superintendent of Police B.S. Patil.
According to the report, heavy rainfall led to severe waterlogging in several areas of Bailhongal, including Havaldar Galli, Channamma Samadhi Road, Kalmath Galli, Mahadevaswamy Mutt area and Maruti Galli. Floodwaters entered homes, damaged property and reportedly washed away two-wheelers and other belongings.
In Savadatti, rainwater inundated 15 to 20 houses in localities such as Bennikatti, Savalbhavi Oni, Girijannavar Oni, Diwatger Oni, Ramapur Site and Singarakoppa Road. Household items, including food grains and clothing, were damaged. The report also noted that rainwater entered the Renuka Yallamma Temple premises.
The Lokayukta order emphasized that public health, safety and a clean environment are protected under Article 21 of the Constitution and cited Supreme Court rulings highlighting the responsibility of government authorities to safeguard these rights. The inquiry will examine whether lapses by local officials contributed to the flooding and property damage.
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