Congress expels two district leaders in Shivamogga over ₹3 lakh job-for-cash allegation

Shivamogga: The district unit of the Indian National Congress has expelled two of its office-bearers for six years following serious allegations that they collected ₹3 lakh from a woman on the promise of securing her a job.

District Congress secretary Nazima and Y. Thimmaraju have been removed from the party after a complaint surfaced accusing them of taking money from Asma Banu, assuring her of a contract-based government position. The alleged incident has triggered embarrassment within the party ranks in Shivamogga.

According to the complaint, the duo not only accepted the money but also allegedly misused the name of the Congress party and invoked the names of the district in-charge minister and a Member of the Legislative Council to convince the complainant of their influence. It is further alleged that the accused claimed they could leverage political connections to secure employment for her.

Following the complaint, a case has been registered against the two at Doddapete Police Station. Police have initiated an investigation into the financial transaction and are verifying the claims made by the complainant. Officials said statements are being recorded and documentary evidence, if any, will be examined as part of the probe.

The controversy also led to internal pressure within the party. Shivamogga District Mahila Congress president Shwetha Bandi reportedly wrote to the district leadership seeking disciplinary action against Nazima, stating that the allegations had brought disrepute to the party.

Acting swiftly, District Congress president R. Prasannakumar issued an official order expelling both Nazima and Y. Thimmaraju from the party for a period of six years. Party sources stated that the Congress has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and misuse of its name for personal gain.

The development has sparked political reactions locally, with opposition leaders demanding a transparent investigation. Meanwhile, Congress leaders maintained that the party would not shield anyone found guilty of wrongdoing.

Further legal action will depend on the outcome of the ongoing police investigation.