“The spectre of corruption once raised, on the basis of material placed on record, cannot be summarily extinguished at the threshold,”
Rohini Sindhuri, who served as the deputy commissioner of Mysuru and was also the managing director of the Karnataka Handloom Development Corporation at the time of the alleged misconduct, is facing serious allegations. A complaint filed by NR Ravinchandre Gowda, a lawyer and social activist from Mysuru, claims that the state government incurred a loss of Rs 7.5 crore due to the purchase of over 14 lakh eco-friendly cloth bags in 2021. The bags were procured at a price of Rs 52 each, significantly higher than the market price of Rs 13.
The complaint initially faced hurdles as the state government declined permission for prosecution under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, which is designed to protect public servants from frivolous complaints. However, the court’s ruling underscores the importance of investigating corruption allegations thoroughly, stating that such claims cannot be dismissed without proper inquiry.
Justice M Nagaprasanna further clarified the legal landscape surrounding this case, noting that “Departmental proceedings and criminal prosecution operate in distinct spheres, governed by distinct standards of proof and objectives.” This distinction is crucial as it highlights the need for a comprehensive investigation into the allegations against Sindhuri, rather than relying solely on internal departmental reviews.
In a pointed critique of the government’s initial refusal to allow an investigation, the court emphasized that “Section 17A should not be used to block serious investigations; it is only meant to stop false complaints.” This statement reflects a growing concern about the misuse of legal provisions designed to protect public servants, potentially shielding them from accountability.
As the case unfolds, the Karnataka High Court has ordered the state government to permit the Lokayukta police to file a First Information Report (FIR) against Rohini Sindhuri under the Prevention of Corruption Act. This development marks a significant step in the legal proceedings, as it allows for a formal investigation into the allegations of corruption surrounding the eco-friendly bags procurement.
Rohini Sindhuri, a member of the 2009 IAS batch from the Karnataka cadre, has been a prominent figure in the state’s bureaucracy. Her career has not been without controversy; she was previously involved in a highly publicized feud with IPS officer D. Roopa in 2023, which drew significant media attention. The current allegations add another layer of complexity to her professional narrative.
What observers say: As the legal process continues, the implications of this case extend beyond Rohini Sindhuri’s career. It raises important questions about accountability within the bureaucracy and the mechanisms in place to address corruption. The court’s insistence on a thorough investigation reflects a commitment to transparency and integrity in public service, a sentiment echoed by many in the legal and civic communities.
