Haveri/ Davanagere : Karnataka Lokayukta Justice BS Patil on Monday expressed concern over the growing number of hostile complainants in Lokayukta trap cases, noting that convictions stand at just 25-30%.
Justice Patil observed that only 50-60% of benefits meant for the public were actually reaching beneficiaries.
Speaking to reporters here, he said not only complainants but also shadow witnesses, who are usually govt employees, were turning hostile in many trap cases. “Officials have been directed to work responsibly and ensure that people’s work in govt offices is not unnecessarily delayed,” he added. “However, the Supreme Court has recently ruled that accused persons in trap cases can be convicted based on circumstantial evidence. We can also initiate action against shadow witnesses as they are govt employees – if they turn hostile,” he warned. Following a review meeting, officers were instructed to furnish written reports on the lapses identified.