The emergence of an audio clip allegedly featuring Karnataka Congress MLA B.R. Patil has ignited a political controversy, raising serious questions about corruption in the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation—a key state-run welfare initiative.
Key Allegations:
-
B.R. Patil, who is also the Deputy Chairman of the Karnataka State Policy and Planning Commission, is heard accusing officials linked to the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation of systemic bribery in allotting houses.
-
According to the clip, only individuals who paid bribes received housing, while legitimate recommendation letters from elected representatives like Patil were ignored.
-
The clip is reportedly a conversation between Patil and Sarfaraz Khan, personal assistant to Housing Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan.
Key Statements from the Audio:
-
Patil asks angrily: “Whoever has paid money, got houses, is this business?”
-
He complains about his recommendations being set aside for those allegedly favored by Gram Panchayat presidents who paid bribes.
-
He warns: “What respect will I have if this happens?”
-
Patil threatens that if the list of beneficiaries is made public, the government will be shaken.
Reaction in the Clip:
-
Sarfaraz Khan denies the corruption charges in the audio, saying those who took bribes would be jailed if evidence is provided.
Scale of the Alleged Corruption:
Patil alleges that:
-
950 houses were distributed under corrupt practices in his Aland constituency.
-
200 houses in Munnalli
-
100 in Hittala Shirur
-
200 in Dangapur
-
200 in Kavalaga
-
200 in Madiyal
-
Implications:
-
The clip could embarrass the Congress-led government in Karnataka, particularly the Housing Department under Zameer Ahmed Khan.
-
Raises questions about the transparency and fairness of welfare housing schemes in the state.
-
Could lead to political fallout within the Congress, especially if the issue is picked up by opposition parties.
-
If verified, it may trigger a probe into the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation and shake public trust in housing distribution.
