Lokayukta conducts raids at 15 locations linked to Udupi excise DC

Udupi,  : Officials of the Karnataka Lokayukta have conducted raids at 15 locations linked to Udupi district excise Deputy Commissioner Srinivas T M over allegations of amassing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.

The searches were carried out under the supervision of Dinesh Kumar and covered several properties associated with the officer across Udupi, Mangaluru and other locations in the state.

During the raids, officials reportedly discovered assets valued at around ₹8.69 crore that are suspected to be disproportionate to the officer’s declared income.

Preliminary findings indicate that the immovable assets alone are worth ₹6.90 crore. These include 11 sites located in different areas, six residential houses and approximately 31 acres of agricultural land.

The Lokayukta team also found movable assets worth ₹2.66 crore during the search operations. These include cash amounting to ₹3.95 lakh, gold ornaments worth ₹1.47 crore, cars valued at around ₹17 lakh, bank deposits totalling ₹25.75 lakh and household goods worth ₹72.68 lakh.

Lokayukta officials said the raids were conducted after receiving reliable information suggesting that the officer had accumulated assets exceeding his legitimate income.

Following this information, search operations were carried out simultaneously at 15 locations connected to the officer and his family members. The operation reportedly lasted for two days as officials gathered documents and examined financial records.

The Lokayukta police have registered a case against Srinivas T M in connection with the alleged disproportionate assets. Authorities said that a formal investigation was initiated on March 13.

Officials are now scrutinising documents related to the agricultural land, residential properties and plots discovered during the raids. The officer will be asked to explain the sources of income used to acquire these assets.

Sources said that once the Lokayukta submits its preliminary report, the concerned department generally reviews the findings and takes disciplinary action if required.

Since the investigation is still in the preliminary stage, further action including possible suspension may be considered after the government examines the Lokayukta’s report and supporting evidence.