The Central Bureau of Investigation has asked Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot to approve the prosecution of Minister B. Nagendra [1].
The request marks a significant escalation in the investigation into the Valmiki ST Development Corporation scam, placing a high-ranking cabinet member under direct legal scrutiny.
B. Nagendra, the Karnataka Planning and Statistics Minister, is facing allegations regarding the diversion of funds within the corporation [1]. The CBI submitted the request for sanction to prosecute on Aug. 23 [2]. According to CBI filings, the amount alleged to be misappropriated in the scam is Rs 90 crore [3].
The case has sparked intense political friction in Bengaluru. R. Ashoka, representing a BJP-JD(S) alliance, said the opposition will lay siege to Vidhana Soudha to demand accountability for the scam [4]. Ashoka said a higher figure of misappropriation occurred, claiming that Rs 187 crore was diverted for election purposes [5].
The Congress party has denied the allegations against the minister. A Congress spokesperson said Minister B. Nagendra is not an accused, and described the allegations as politically motivated [6].
Under Indian law, the CBI requires the governor's permission to prosecute public servants. The decision now rests with Governor Gehlot, as the investigation into the Valmiki ST Development Corporation continues to draw public and political attention in the state.
“The CBI has submitted a request to the Governor for sanction to prosecute Minister B. Nagendra.”
The request for prosecution signals that the CBI has found sufficient evidence to move beyond the investigative phase and toward a trial. Because the case involves the Valmiki ST Development Corporation—which is designed to support scheduled tribes—the outcome carries significant weight for the current administration's reputation regarding social welfare and fiscal integrity.
