Mandya: During a surprise visit to the Mandya Rural Gram Panchayat office on Monday evening, Upa Lokayukta Justice B Veerappa expressed strong disapproval over the absence of lighting in the office stairwell. Disturbed by the dark, unsafe entryway, Justice Veerappa personally paid Rs 80 from his wallet to purchase a replacement bulb.
Inspecting progress reports on sanitation and electrification, the Upa Lokayukta criticised Panchayat Development Officer (PDO) G S Sunil Kumar for the absence of the panchayat president’s signature on official records. “The president is also a public servant and must take responsibility,” he noted firmly.
Spotting a fused bulb in the stairwell, Justice Veerappa donated Rs 100, saying sarcastically, “Perhaps sharing my salary with this office will help you realize your duties.”
His remarks pointed to neglect, inefficiency, and lack of accountability in basic governance. The official’s frustration highlighted how even simple, low-cost repairs like replacing a bulb were being ignored despite clear administrative responsibilities.
The visit was aimed at reviewing civic infrastructure such as drainage and public lighting across nearby villages, but the glaring gaps in execution led to sharp remarks from the senior judicial officer.
This act of paying out-of-pocket was a symbolic yet powerful rebuke of local apathy, calling attention to the condition of grassroots governance and the urgent need for functional accountability in rural administration.
Read Also: