Mysuru: Officials from the Karnataka Lokayukta conducted simultaneous raids on the residence and office of Asif Iqbal Kaleel, an Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) with the Karnataka Urban Water Supply and Drainage Board (KUWSDB), on Thursday as part of an investigation into alleged disproportionate assets.
The operation was carried out following directions from T J Udesh, Superintendent of Police of the Karnataka Lokayukta Mysuru Division. Teams of Lokayukta officials raided Kaleel’s office located in Saraswathipuram and his residence in Shivaji Nagar in the NR Mohalla area.
The raids were conducted early in the morning, with officials searching the premises for documents, financial records, and other materials related to the suspected accumulation of assets disproportionate to known sources of income.
Simultaneous searches at office and residence
According to preliminary information, multiple Lokayukta teams were deployed to ensure simultaneous searches at different locations connected to Kaleel. Officers examined files, electronic devices, property documents, and financial statements as part of the investigation.
Officials also questioned individuals present at the premises to gather further information related to the officer’s financial dealings and professional activities.
Sources within the investigation stated that the action was part of a wider effort to probe corruption allegations against government officials in various departments. The searches were carried out after obtaining the necessary legal approvals and based on intelligence inputs indicating suspected irregularities.
Investigation into disproportionate assets
The primary objective of the raids was to verify whether the officer possessed assets beyond his declared income. In such cases, Lokayukta investigators typically examine property ownership records, bank transactions, investments, vehicles, and other financial holdings.
If evidence suggests that an official has accumulated wealth that cannot be explained through legitimate income sources, authorities may register a formal case under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
During the operation, officials reportedly documented several items and collected records that will now be analysed as part of the ongoing inquiry. However, authorities have not yet disclosed the value of assets identified during the searches.
Anti-corruption drive continues
The Lokayukta has been conducting regular raids across the state targeting officials suspected of corruption and accumulation of illegal wealth. Similar operations have been carried out in different districts in recent months as part of the anti-corruption watchdog’s mandate.
Officials said such actions are intended to ensure transparency and accountability within government departments. By scrutinising the financial records of public servants, the agency aims to identify irregularities and take legal action where necessary.
In the present case, investigators will prepare a detailed report based on the findings from the searches conducted at the officer’s residence and workplace.
Further details awaited
Authorities stated that the raids were still in progress at the time of reporting, and a comprehensive assessment of the seized materials would take time. Further details regarding the value of assets discovered, if any, are expected to emerge after officials complete the documentation and verification process.
Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the Lokayukta may register a formal case or initiate additional legal proceedings against the officer if irregularities are confirmed.
The operation highlights the continuing efforts of anti-corruption agencies in Karnataka to investigate allegations against public officials and maintain integrity in public administration.