Valmiki Corporation Scam: ED raids MLA Nagendra's office in Bengaluru

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out simultaneous raids at eight locations in Karnataka on Tuesday in connection with the alleged misuse of Valmiki Development Corporation funds. The raids were part of an investigation into illegal cash distribution during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

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According to sources, five locations in Ballari and three in Bengaluru were searched by ED officials. One of the key sites included the office of Karnataka Minister and Ballari MLA B Nagendra, who is under scrutiny for alleged financial irregularities. The raids reportedly began early in the morning, with ED teams examining documents and electronic records linked to the case.

The ED's action follows allegations that funds from the Valmiki Corporation were misused and distributed in cash to Congress workers and voters during the recent elections. The agency suspects that a significant portion of the misappropriated money was diverted for electoral purposes, violating election and anti-corruption laws.

Preliminary information suggests that cash was handed out directly, bypassing legal financial channels. The ED is reportedly acting on intelligence and evidence collected over the past few weeks, which pointed to a larger network of money laundering and electoral malpractice.

Officials stated that the investigation is ongoing, and more individuals linked to the alleged scam may be summoned for questioning in the coming days. Further details are expected as the probe progresses.