₹625 crore minority welfare fund misuse case: Lokayukta issues notice to Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan

Serious allegations of irregular fund allocation and financial misconduct in minority colony development projects bring Karnataka minister under Lokayukta scanner.

Karnataka Waqf and Minority Welfare Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan has landed in serious trouble after the Lokayukta issued him a formal notice in connection with alleged misuse of ₹625 crore meant for minority welfare projects. The notice follows a detailed complaint accusing the minister of large-scale financial irregularities in the allocation of funds for minority colony development.

According to the complaint, massive funds earmarked for improving infrastructure and living conditions in minority colonies were allegedly diverted in violation of established financial norms. It is alleged that contracts worth ₹625 crore were awarded without obtaining mandatory prior approval from the state Finance Department. The complainant has further claimed that the funds were allocated in collusion with contractors, leading to large-scale misuse of public money.

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The issue was formally brought before the Lokayukta by Janata Dal (Secular) spokesperson Pradeep Kumar, who submitted documentary evidence and sought a thorough investigation into the alleged scam. Acting on the complaint, the Lokayukta examined the preliminary materials and issued an official notice to Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, directing him to provide a detailed explanation of the allegations.

In the notice, the Lokayukta has asked the minister to submit a comprehensive reply along with supporting documents in two copies, clearly responding to each allegation related to financial misconduct and procedural violations.

Following the notice, Zameer Ahmed Khan responded through his legal counsel. His lawyers have requested additional time to prepare a detailed reply, stating that the case involves extensive records and complex financial documentation that require careful verification before submission.

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It is noteworthy that News First had earlier aired an exclusive report highlighting suspected irregularities in the Minority Welfare Department. The report had raised serious concerns regarding fund allocation and implementation of development works. Based on the information revealed in that investigation, the JDS filed its formal complaint, which has now led to official Lokayukta action.

Further developments are expected once the minister submits his response and the Lokayukta proceeds with a detailed investigation.