Allegations of Misusing Corruption Money for Politics – Accusation
Minister Accused of Shielding the Corrupt – Complaint Filed
Special Report
Corruption Rampant in the Department of Women and Child Development
Minister Accused of Shielding the Corrupt
Belagavi
Congress MLA B.R. Patil recently exposed a major scam in the Housing Department, causing a political stir. But even as that controversy simmers, fresh allegations are surfacing against the LAXMI HEBBALKAR Minister for Women and Child Development, who is reportedly shielding corrupt officials within her own department — a matter that has now triggered serious debate and put the state government in an embarrassing position.
In a press conference held in the city, RTI activist Omprakash laid bare the details of a scam in the Women and Child Development Department in Bidar. He alleged that despite official recommendations to take action against corrupt officers, Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar has chosen to protect them, tarnishing the image of the government. ( EBELAGAVI)
As reports of widespread corruption emerge from the department, suspicion is increasingly falling on Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar’s direct role. According to Omprakash, even after inquiries revealed irregularities such as illegal appointments and mismanagement in the distribution of nutritional food supplies in Bidar district, the minister failed to take action.
Serious allegations have been registered against Tipanna Shirsagi and Ravindra Ratnakar, who served as Deputy Directors and senior officials in the Bidar Women and Child Development Department. Though multiple investigation reports have confirmed these charges, the minister is accused of turning a blind eye and standing by the corrupt. ( E BELAGAVI)
Despite these findings, the two officers have not been suspended. Omprakash pointed out that the reports meant for implementation are gathering dust on the minister’s desk.
Misuse of the Corrupt
Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar is allegedly using these corrupt officials for political purposes, claimed RTI activist Omprakash. He said they are directly involved in organizing her political activities. As a result, those accused of dereliction of duty are ironically serving as public relations officers.( EBELAGAVI)
What Do the Inquiry Reports Say?
14-07-2023: In the Legislative Council, a written assurance was given that action would be taken.
24-07-2024: In the Legislative Assembly, a follow-up question was submitted regarding the same issue.
06-04-2024: A report was submitted to the government by the department’s director.
14-05-2025: In a DISHA committee meeting, officer Shyamala Iqbal recommended the suspension of the corrupt officials.
Despite all this, the government has not taken any action. Omprakash alleged that Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar is providing protection to corrupt officials.
“Minister Should Resign”
Omprakash demanded that Minister Hebbalkar, who is protecting corrupt officials, must be immediately removed from the cabinet. Otherwise, he warned, a larger campaign will be launched against the government’s double standards and lack of ethics.
This Is Proof Enough…
He added that the appointment of accused officials Tipanna Shirsagi and Ravindra Ratnakar as public relations officers itself serves as proof of the minister’s complicity. He stated that by ignoring the findings of the Assembly, Legislative Council, and DISHA Committee, the minister has clearly taken a stand in favor of the corrupt.( EBELAGAVI)
