Karnataka Housing Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan has said he is open to any investigation after Congress MLA B R Patil made explosive allegations of bribery in the state’s housing scheme. Speaking to the media on Monday, Khan dismissed the accusations and challenged Patil to “name the corrupt officials” if he had any proof.
“Let B R Patil name the officials. I am not afraid of any investigation,” Khan stated, asserting his innocence and willingness to face any probe, including by Lokayukta or CBI.
🧾 The Allegation
Congress veteran B R Patil, MLA from Aland constituency, had claimed that bribes ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹1 lakh were being demanded by intermediaries and officials in the Gruha Lakshmi housing allotment scheme, launched to provide housing to the poor.
“This is not what we came to power for. If our own government’s officials are asking for money from the poor, it’s shameful,” Patil said in a video statement that went viral.
🔍 Zameer Khan’s Response
In a strong rebuttal, Khan:
Said he welcomes a formal investigation
Urged Patil to submit names and evidence
Claimed the entire department had been instructed to maintain transparency
Added that he had personally visited districts to monitor housing scheme implementation
Khan also indicated that some political motivations may be behind the public accusations.
🗳️ Congress on the Defensive
The ruling Congress party in Karnataka finds itself cornered as this latest controversy emerges just weeks after it touted the Gruha Lakshmi Yojana as a success story. The party leadership has yet to issue an official statement.
Political analysts suggest the incident highlights internal tensions within the Congress and may be exploited by opposition parties in the run-up to the BBMP elections and 2024 local body polls.
❓ FAQ Section
Q1: What is the bribery allegation made by B R Patil?
A: Congress MLA B R Patil alleged that bribes were being sought by officials to allot houses under the state’s housing scheme, demanding amounts from ₹25,000 to ₹1 lakh.
Q2: How has Zameer Khan responded?
A: Zameer Khan has said he is ready for any investigation and has asked B R Patil to name the officials involved if he has proof.
Q3: Will there be a formal inquiry into the housing scheme?
A: As of now, no official probe has been announced, but pressure is mounting for a Lokayukta or independent investigation.
Q4: What is the Gruha Lakshmi housing scheme?
A: It’s a state-run welfare program in Karnataka aimed at providing homes to low-income families and women-headed households.
Q5: Could this issue affect Karnataka’s political stability?
A: While not immediately destabilizing, it exposes intra-party friction and may weaken the Congress party’s credibility if not handled transparently.
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Reported by Benny on June 24, 2025.
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