On Thursday, a Lokayukta team headed by Deputy Superintendent of Police Halamurthy Rao and Inspector Manjunath entered the Belur Gram Panchayat office in Kundapur taluk, Udupi district, to investigate public complaints about delayed building permits and administrative lapses.
The officials examined records pertaining to the Gram Panchayat Development Officer and other staff members, focusing on the procedures used to process building‑permit applications. Their review included the disposal of applications, timelines for approval, and any deviations from standard practice.
According to the grievance, approximately 400 villagers submitted applications after election promises suggested that house sites would be allocated promptly. The Lokayukta team scrutinised each application, the supporting documentation, and the steps the panchayat followed to either approve or reject them.
In addition to office inspections, the team visited several stone quarries that fall within the Belur Gram Panchayat jurisdiction. On‑site checks aimed to verify the existence of proper permissions, assess compliance with regulatory norms, and determine whether the panchayat had taken appropriate action regarding quarry operations.
The raid was prompted by multiple complaints from residents who felt that the panchayat administration had failed to deliver promised services and had mishandled permit procedures. Lokayukta officials continue to collect relevant information, and a detailed report is expected once the examination of records is complete.
Further clarification on the allegations and the next steps in the inquiry will be announced after the investigation concludes.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Mangalorean News