Karnataka Minister Linked to Major Election Scam

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has charged former Karnataka Minister Nagendra and his associates with misappropriating Rs 187.33 crore from the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation Limited (KMVSTDCL). 

According to the chargesheet, Rs 15 crore of the Rs 89.63 crore siphoned off was allegedly used to influence voters during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections with cash distributed to voters and party workers in areas like Bellary and Kudligi.

The investigation revealed a complex money laundering scheme involving fake accounts and shell companies where funds were funneled into personal expenses including flight bookings and vehicle maintenance. The funds were consolidated into a single account before being siphoned off through fraudulent means.

The investigation intensified following the suicide of an officer linked to the corporation leading to the uncovering of this extensive scam and the ongoing efforts to recover the misappropriated funds.