HC stays probe into works during BJP govt's tenure

BENGALURU: The high court has sought an explanation from the government as to why the special investigation cell constituted to probe various works awarded by the previous regime hasn't completed its task within the one-month deadline.

Till the government gives an explanation, there will be a stay on further proceedings pursuant to the August 5 notification constituting the special cell. Justice M Nagaprasanna posted the petition filed by M/s Nikshep Infra Projects Limited and other contractors to December 19.

The petitioners have questioned the order to set up a special cell for investigating all works from 2019-20 to 2022-23. According to them, the change in government led to scrutiny of works that had taken place earlier and those for which completion certificates had already been issued by the competent authorities.

The petitioners said the August 5 order contained a specific direction to conclude the inquiry within 30 days and a report be submitted. Yet, four months have passed by and nothing has happened except for setting up the one-man inquiry commission on August 25 under the Commissions of Enquiry Act, 1952.