Vinod M Jain
After a Widespread allegations of corruption and administrative lapses in Karnataka’s School Education and Literacy Department have triggered a major probe by the Lokayukta.
On Tuesday,as many as 12 investigative teams carried out simultaneous raids across multiple department offices in Bengaluru to uncover evidence of irregularities involving officers and staff.
The searches began at 3.30 pm,following a series of recurring complaints pointing to bribery,favoritism,and delays that have affected both employees and students.
The investigation is being overseen by Lokayukta Justice,B.S.Patil,with support from senior officials of the Education Department.
According to officials,the probe is examining alleged bribery in leave and salary approvals,manipulation of transfer certificates and mark sheets,irregularities in teacher promotions,and discrepancies in guest teacher honorariums.
The operation is also looking into corruption in the registration and renewal of private and grant-in-aid schools,misuse of government grants,and tampering of exam re-evaluation requests.
In addition,complaints highlight serious lapses in enforcing child safety norms in private schools and violations involving liquor and tobacco outlets operating near educational institutions.
Investigators are also verifying adherence to recruitment rules for physical education teachers and compliance with infrastructure safety standards.
The Lokayukta issued 12 search warrants authorising the coordinated raids,which are expected to continue late into the night.
Officials assured that all findings will be transparently documented and acted upon as part of efforts to restore accountability in the education sector.
The Lokayukta investigations continue to ascertain the quantum of irregularities and mal adminstrations in the department .
