Udupi: The Lokayukta Police conducted a surprise raid at the Udupi Urban Development Authority (UUDA) office on Friday following complaints that hundreds of files had been kept pending beyond the stipulated processing period. The operation, which began in the afternoon, continued late into the night as officials examined records and reviewed file movements within the authority.
The raid was led by Lokayukta Deputy Superintendent of Police Hala Moorthi Rao and involved a team comprising two inspectors and 16 personnel. The inspection was launched in response to allegations that numerous applications and files had remained unattended for prolonged periods without valid reasons.
Complaints trigger investigation
According to information received by the Lokayukta, files that would ordinarily be processed and disposed of within 15 to 20 days were allegedly being kept pending for much longer durations.
The complaints raised concerns about delays in administrative procedures and alleged that applicants were facing inconvenience due to the prolonged pendency of files. Acting on these allegations, the Lokayukta initiated a surprise inspection to verify the claims and assess the functioning of the authority.
Officials examined records, file registers and administrative documents as part of the inquiry.
Over 200 files reportedly found pending
During the inspection, Lokayukta officials reportedly discovered more than 200 files that had remained pending without apparent justification.
Preliminary findings suggested that a substantial number of applications and proposals had not been processed within the expected timeframe. The large volume of pending files prompted officials to conduct a detailed review of the reasons behind the delays.
Authorities are now expected to scrutinise individual files and examine whether procedural lapses, administrative inefficiencies or other factors contributed to the backlog.
Suspicions of ulterior motives
Investigators suspect that some files may have been deliberately delayed either due to alleged demands for money or for other undisclosed reasons.
However, officials clarified that the exact reasons for the pendency have not yet been established and will be determined through a detailed inquiry. The investigation will focus on identifying whether any irregularities, misconduct or abuse of office occurred in the handling of applications.
The findings of the inquiry could lead to further action depending on the evidence collected during the inspection and subsequent verification process.
Inspection likely to continue
Speaking about the operation, DySP Hala Moorthi Rao said the inquiry is ongoing and that the Lokayukta team would continue its examination of records and files.
Officials indicated that the operation is likely to extend into Saturday as investigators seek to complete a comprehensive assessment of the pending cases and administrative procedures followed by the authority.
The continuation of the inspection highlights the seriousness with which the complaints are being treated by the anti-corruption watchdog.
Focus on transparency and accountability
The raid has drawn attention to the importance of timely disposal of public files and transparency in government offices. Delays in processing applications can affect citizens seeking approvals, permissions and other services from urban development authorities.
The Lokayukta’s action is expected to provide clarity on the reasons behind the large number of pending files and determine whether any officials can be held accountable for the delays.
The outcome of the investigation will be closely watched, as it could have implications for administrative practices and public service delivery within the authority.