Karnataka BJP MLA caught taking Rs 5 lakh bribe, 2 aides detained

Karnataka BJP MLA Chandru Lamani was arrested on Saturday after the state Lokayukta police allegedly caught him red-handed while accepting a Rs 5 lakh bribe. The amount was part of an alleged total demand of Rs 11 lakh. Lamani, who represents the Shirahatti Assembly constituency, was first detained for questioning following a trap operation and later formally arrested.

According to officials, the bribe was allegedly sought to facilitate approvals linked to a minor irrigation department project in Gadag district. The work involved the construction of a retaining wall along both sides of a road and had been assigned to a contractor.

The complainant, Vijay Pujar, a Class-1 contractor from Gadag, approached anti-corruption authorities claiming he had been asked to pay Rs 11 lakh to secure necessary clearances for the project. After verifying the complaint, Lokayukta police laid a trap. During the operation, Lamani was allegedly caught accepting Rs 5 lakh, part of the demanded sum.

Two of Lamani’s personal assistants — Manjunath Valmiki and Gurunaik — were also detained at the scene and later secured for further investigation. Authorities suspect their involvement in facilitating the alleged transaction and are currently questioning all three individuals.

A case has been registered under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Lokayukta officials said material evidence was seized during the operation and further investigation is underway to establish the full extent of the alleged wrongdoing and prepare the matter for prosecution.