Contractors’ ‘40% Cut’ Allegation Under Scrutiny as Inquiry Report Reaches Cabinet
Bengaluru: The Justice H N Nagamohan Das Commission has submitted a 20,000-page inquiry report to the Karnataka government, detailing findings on the alleged ‘40% commission’ in civil works executed between July 26, 2019, and March 31, 2023, during the BJP’s tenure. The report was handed over to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday, along with an additional 1,800-page report on alleged irregularities in the modernization of the Narayanapura Left Bank canal.
Background of the Inquiry
The one-man commission was constituted in August 2023, shortly after the Congress government came to power. The primary objective of the inquiry was to examine allegations raised by the Karnataka State Contractors’ Association. In letters addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai in 2021 and 2022, the association claimed that contractors were required to pay a 25% to 30% commission before commencing work and an additional 5% to 6% on post-work bills. They further alleged that a “package system” of bundling multiple works favored contractors from outside Karnataka.
The ‘40% commission’ issue became a key point in the Congress campaign during the 2023 Assembly elections, with the party promising a thorough investigation into the claims.
Scope of Investigation
Beyond investigating the commission allegations, the Congress government tasked Justice Das with reviewing projects under various agencies, including the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), and departments handling public works, rural development, panchayat raj, and water resources.
Public Input and Investigation Methods
Justice Das emphasized the role of public opinion in the inquiry process. “Since allegations pertained to civil works, it was important to elicit opinions from the public. The commission also looked into complaints it received from the public,” he stated.
The commission’s inquiry spanned 1,344 days of BJP’s governance and used a scientific randomization process to select completed projects for review. The analysis covered all departments, districts, and project categories, assessing the type and cost of works executed.
Next Steps
The Karnataka government is expected to discuss the findings of Justice Das’ reports in an upcoming Cabinet meeting and determine the course of action based on the recommendations.
Statements & Quotes:
-
Justice H N Nagamohan Das: “Since allegations pertained to civil works, it was important to elicit opinions from the public. The commission also looked into complaints it received from the public.”
-
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah: “The government will thoroughly examine the findings of the Justice Das report before deciding on further action.”
-
Karnataka State Contractors’ Association Representative: “For years, we have raised concerns about irregularities in the system. This report is a step toward transparency and accountability.”
Q & A:
Q: What was the purpose of the Justice Das Commission?
A: The commission was set up to investigate the ‘40% commission’ allegations related to civil works contracts awarded during the BJP’s tenure from 2019 to 2023.
Q: What were the main allegations made by the Karnataka State Contractors’ Association?
A: The association claimed that contractors had to pay a 25-30% commission before starting work and an additional 5-6% on post-work bills. They also alleged that the “package system” favored contractors from outside Karnataka.
Q: How did the commission conduct the inquiry?
A: The inquiry covered 1,344 days of BJP’s rule, using a scientific randomization method to select projects for review. The investigation included projects from various departments and districts.
Q: What happens next?
A: The government will discuss the report in the Cabinet and decide on further action based on the findings and recommendations.
Summary:
The Justice H N Nagamohan Das Commission has submitted a 20,000-page report to the Karnataka government on alleged irregularities in civil works between 2019 and 2023 under the BJP’s rule. The inquiry focused on the ‘40% commission’ claims made by the Karnataka State Contractors’ Association. The commission also reviewed infrastructure projects under various departments, considering public complaints. The findings will be discussed in the Cabinet before any further action is taken
