Ballari: Following notices issued to 255 government officials by the Lokayukta, Upa Lokayukta B Veerappa began his district inspection tour on Thursday with a surprise visit to the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC).
During the visit, Veerappa scrutinized the operational procedures and uncovered irregularities, including illegal commission collections from farmers and inadequate infrastructure. He criticized the management, emphasizing that the APMC Act prohibits charging farmers commissions, restricting fees to Rs 2 per buyer. However, farmers were being charged Rs 10—a violation that Veerappa termed as exploitation.
Veerappa directed officials to provide detailed reports by the evening on the daily commission and cess collections, along with total amounts collected to date. He warned that failure to comply would result in complaints being filed against both officials and the management board.
The Upa Lokayukta expressed displeasure at the absence of the APMC secretary, who failed to be present despite prior notification of the visit.
As part of his broader investigation, Veerappa is addressing 95 complaints related to the activities of 255 government officials in the district. A follow-up inquiry is scheduled for January 18, signaling potential disciplinary action against those found guilty of misconduct.
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