Karnataka HC orders CBI probe into Valmiki ST Development scam
Bengaluru, Jul 1 (PTI): The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday ordered a comprehensive probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the alleged Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation scam.
Previously, the CBI's role in the case was confined to examining limited irregularities.
However, the High Court has now directed a full-fledged investigation, requiring the state's Special Investigation Team (SIT) to transfer all case-related documents and evidence to the central agency.
The case involves serious allegations of embezzlement of funds earmarked for the welfare of tribal communities.
In June, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out multiple raids under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) at locations associated with Congress MP E Tukaram from Bellary and three Karnataka MLAs.
The searches were part of a larger probe into the suspected diversion of funds by the Valmiki Corporation.
Investigators believe that substantial amounts were illicitly withdrawn from the Corporation's accounts and funneled into bogus bank accounts, before being laundered through shell companies.
The ED has also alleged that a portion of the transferred funds was used in the Bellary constituency during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Founded in 2006, the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation was established to implement developmental schemes aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of Scheduled Tribe communities in the state.
The ongoing investigation builds on earlier FIRs lodged by both the Karnataka Police and the CBI, focusing on the suspected misuse of public funds meant for these welfare initiatives.
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3 killed, 7 injured as bus plunges into gorge in Uttarakhand's Kalsi
Dehradun (PTI): Three passengers, including two women, were killed and around seven sustained serious injuries when a bus fell into a deep gorge in the Kalsi area here on Tuesday, officials said.
According to the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the accident occurred near Kuanu on the Meenak Road.
Rescue and relief operations were launched immediately after the incident, with teams from the SDRF and police rushing to the spot, officials said.
The SDRF said three passengers -- two women and a man -- died on the spot, while seven were seriously injured and have been hospitalised.
The bus belonged to Himachal Roadways and was carrying more than 30 passengers at the time of the accident, officials said.
Upon receiving information about the incident, SDRF teams stationed at Dakpathar, Chakrata, Mori, and Tiuni were dispatched to the accident site to carry out rescue and relief operations.
The cause of the accident is yet to be ascertained, they said.
