Mohan Das Pai slams rising corruption in Karnataka, urges transparency

Prominent entrepreneur and former Infosys CFO Mohan Das Pai has strongly criticized the growing corruption in Karnataka, stating that bribery has increased significantly over the last two years, particularly under the Congress government. In a candid interview with News First, Pai said that though he does not have a precise percentage to quote, widespread feedback from real estate professionals and bureaucrats indicates worsening corruption levels across departments.

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Pai cited examples of the bureaucracy demanding bribes for building approvals, RERA clearances, and occupancy certificates. “Everything from BDA approvals to fire department clearances comes with a ‘rate card’ now,” he said. “Real estate developers can tell you exactly how much bribe was expected earlier and how much is demanded now.”

Recounting his own experience, Pai revealed that BDA officials asked for a bribe to approve his house plan. When he questioned them, they justified it by claiming they had paid large sums to secure their postings. “Now, several officials pool money, approach politicians for prime postings, and recover their investment through bribes,” he alleged.

Pai suggested the government legalize bribery if it cannot stop it, even sarcastically calling for official boards displaying department-wise bribe rates. “At least in some states, paying a bribe gets the job done. In Karnataka, even that doesn't work,” he said.

He criticized former CM Basavaraj Bommai for not ordering a probe when the BJP itself claimed 40% commission was prevalent. “He should have formed a commission and collected evidence,” Pai said.

Pai further stated that corruption is rampant not just in BDA and RERA, but also in the police, fire department, and pollution control board. He urged media houses to investigate the scale of the issue.

“Elections in Karnataka cost ₹30–40 crore,” he said, “and parties need candidates who can fund themselves.”