Investigation to be Launched by CID into Alleged Land Scam in Belagavi

Satish Jarkiholi, PWD Minister, on tuesday announced that the alleged land scam in the Belagavi Urban Development Authority (BUDA) under the previous BJP government will be thoroughly investigated by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

During a press conference, the Congress leader revealed that the purported scam, which took place in March 2022, resulted in a staggering loss of approximately Rs 100 crore to the state exchequer. Minister Jarkiholi also hinted at possible irregularities in land allotment under the previous government, citing significant differences in prices between plots allotted through manual and online auctions.

To illustrate his point, the Minister provided examples of sites that were allotted for a mere Rs 20-25 lakh through manual auctioning, while those auctioned online fetched more than Rs 1 crore. These discrepancies have raised concerns and prompted the CID to investigate the contentious transactions.

As a responsible government, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency and accountability. The CID’s investigation will be conducted with utmost diligence and impartiality to ensure that justice is served, and the culprits are brought to book.

In regards to the proposed bifurcation of Belagavi district into three separate parts, namely Belagavi, Chikodi, and Gokak, Jarkiholi has stated the following: “We had previously made this demand during our time in opposition. Belagavi is one of the largest districts in the state, with a population exceeding 50 lakh and encompassing a total of 18 assembly constituencies.”

Minister Satish Jarakiholi has announced that the inauguration of Belagavi’s super specialty hospital is imminent. To ensure its success, the necessary machinery and equipment will be provided. The government is committed to making this project a success and will take all necessary measures to ensure its smooth operation, the minister added.