Bengaluru: The Central Bureau of Investigation submitted three detailed chargesheets on June 3 against former Scheduled Tribes Welfare Minister B. Nagendra, a Congress legislator, and 29 other individuals linked to the alleged multi-crore scam at the Karnataka Maharishi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation. The filings followed a thorough probe into suspected fund misappropriation involving the corporation, the Scheduled Tribes Welfare Department, and the Karnataka German Technical Training Institute. Nagendra is named in all three documents as a central figure in the alleged conspiracy, alongside associate Nekkanti Nagaraj and former corporation managing director Padmanabha J.G. The case began after Union Bank of India reported irregular transactions at its Bengaluru branch. Investigators later identified a wider pattern of irregularities across government bodies and private parties. The agency stated that Hyderabad businessman Satyanarayana Varma helped carry out the scheme, which involved 18 fictitious bank accounts opened with forged documents. Nearly 187 crore rupees entered a corporation account at the bank, of which about 89.63 crore rupees were moved via fake cheques and fraudulent transfers. The funds reportedly passed through around 600 accounts before conversion into cash, gold, and vehicles. Bank staff allegedly ignored rules to enable the activity. A luxury vehicle bought with diverted money was said to be held for Nagendra’s benefit, while some proceeds reached Nagaraj and relatives. Separate findings covered contracts worth 13.95 crore rupees for computer labs and roti-making machines awarded in 2023-24, with claims of tender irregularities and kickbacks. Nagendra allegedly received 1.20 crore rupees routed through family and associate accounts. Another probe examined a 4.90 crore rupee skill project subcontracted without open bidding, involving further alleged bribes. The CBI said it collected extensive evidence against 30 accused, including officials, bankers, and intermediaries.
