Allegations of Corruption Against Karnataka Backward Classes Welfare Minister Shivraj Tangadagi in Grant Disbursement Delay

Date: June 25, 2025
Location: Press Club of Bangalore
Reported by: Sri Sri Sri Poornanandapuri Swamiji

Bangalore: Serious allegations of corruption and administrative misconduct have been levelled against Karnataka’s Backward Classes Welfare Minister, Shri Shivraj Sangappa Tangadagi, over the delay in releasing government grants sanctioned for the development of a community religious institution.

During a press conference held at the Bangalore Press Club, Sri Sri Sri Poornanandapuri Swamiji of Sri Kshetra Shaileshwara Ganigara Mutt accused the minister of deliberately withholding the sanctioned funds unless illegal commissions are paid. The Swamiji stated that despite multiple government orders approving the release of ₹3.5 crore towards the overall development of the religious institution, ₹1.5 crore still remains unreleased.

Details of the Grant:

On October 18, 2022, the Karnataka Government approved a ₹3.5 crore grant for the overall development of Vishwa Ganigara Samudaya Charitable Trust (R) and Sri Kshetra Shaileshwara Ganigara Mahasansthana Mutt.

Subsequent approvals from the Finance Department and Chief Minister followed, with ₹2 crore released in initial phases.

However, the remaining ₹1.5 crore, although cleared for release by the Finance Department, continues to be held up by the Minister, allegedly pending illegal demands.


Allegations of Bribery:

Swamiji claims that there have been repeated demands for a 20%–25% commission by individuals allegedly close to Minister Tangadagi. “We were told that unless this commission is paid, the grant file will not be cleared,” he alleged. He further stated that despite over 15 official attempts to meet and appeal to the Minister, the file was intentionally kept pending without justification.

Swamiji’s Personal Sacrifice:

Highlighting his commitment, Swamiji revealed that he sold his only legally owned property to fund the institution’s development, spending over ₹1 crore from personal resources. “We beg for donations to build, while the Minister demands bribes to release government-sanctioned grants,” he said.

Legal Action and Government Orders:

Following a legal petition, the court issued directives on March 26, 2025, instructing the government to release the pending ₹1.5 crore. Despite orders dated April 23 and May 2, 2025, the Minister allegedly continues to defy compliance.

Demand for Minister’s Removal:

Swamiji called upon the Chief Minister to immediately dismiss Minister Tangadagi from the Cabinet, stating that such corrupt practices endanger the progress and welfare of backward communities. “We do not seek charity, we seek justice,” he concluded.