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Investigators believe that substantial amounts were illicitly withdrawn from the Corporation's accounts and funneled into bogus bank accounts, before being laundered through shell companies.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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KSRTC to run 1000 special services to clear Christmas rush
Bengaluru: The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation will operate 1000 additional special services in view of the Christmas festival.
In addition to the existing schedule, the special services will run on 19.12.2025, 20.12.2025 and 24.12.2025. Further, special buses will be operated from various places of intra & Interstate places to Bengaluru on 26.12.2025 & 28.12.2025.
Special buses will be exclusively operated from Bengaluru Kempegowda Bus Station to Dharmastala, Kukkesubramanya, Shivamogga, Hassan, Mangaluru, Kundapura, Shringeri, Horanadu, Davangere, Hubbali, Dharwad, Belagavi, Vijayapura, Gokarna, Sirsi, Karwar, Raichur, Kalaburagi, Ballari, Koppala, Yadgir, Bidar, Tirupathi, Vijayawada, Hyderabad and other places.
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Special buses from Mysuru Road Bus Station will be exclusively operated towards Mysuru, Hunsur, Piriyapatna, Virajpet, Kushalanagar, Madikeri.
The corporation has also announced a discount of 5 per cent on the fare if four or more passengers book tickets under a single reservation. A discount of 10 per cent will be extended on return journey tickets if onward and return tickets are booked simultaneously.
In addition to the above, special buses will be operated from all Taluk/District Bus Stands in the jurisdiction of KSRTC based on the traffic needs.
