Karnataka Govt to Act on Officers Named in Covid Inquiry Report

By A Staff Reporter

Bengaluru, Karnataka | Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday said the government will initiate disciplinary action against officials identified in the Justice Michael D'Cunha inquiry report on Covid-19 irregularities. Speaking to the media, he confirmed that several irregularities had been uncovered, including excessive payments and the distribution of expired medicines.

"Mr. D’Cunha has submitted a report. A cabinet sub-committee was formed. The second meeting has taken place, and many issues have been identified—several excess payments were made, expired drugs were given. About 29 officers have not responded to notices issued by the committee. We are taking action on those officers, and whatever disciplinary action is required, we will implement," Shivakumar said.

The report, commissioned to investigate mismanagement during the pandemic, has raised concerns about administrative lapses. The government’s decision to act against erring officials signals a move toward accountability.

Separately, when asked about the expulsion of Karnataka BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal from the party, Shivakumar distanced himself from the issue. "It is their party... Let them do whatever they want. We don’t want to intervene in that decision. It is not our decision," he stated.