The Crorepati Clerk: ₹15K Salary, ₹30 Crore Assets

24 homes, 40 acres of land, gold and more unearthed in major Lokayukta raid

Karnataka: In a staggering case of alleged corruption, a former clerk Kalakappa Nidagundi, earning just ₹15,000 a month has been found in possession of assets worth over ₹30 crore, according to Karnataka Lokayukta officials.

Fake projects, real fortune

Authorities claim that Nidagundi, in collusion with ex-KRIDL engineer Z.M. Chincholkar, used fake documentation to siphon off funds through 96 incomplete infrastructure projects. The fraudulent activity allegedly led to misappropriation of more than ₹72 crore.

The Lokayukta’s raid on Nidagundi’s property revealed a staggering hoard of wealth: 24 residential homes, four land plots, 40 acres of agricultural land, 350 grams of gold, 1.5 kg of silver, and four vehicles — all under the names of Nidagundi, his wife, and his brother.

Statewide crackdown expands

This revelation came after a formal complaint was lodged, prompting a court-ordered investigation. The case is part of a broader Lokayukta crackdown on government officials suspected of amassing wealth beyond their known income sources.

On July 23, officials raided 41 locations connected to eight government officers, including one IAS officer, recovering assets totalling ₹37.42 crore across several districts including Bengaluru Urban, Mysuru, Kalaburagi, and Kodagu.

Koppal MLA K Raghavendra Hitnal stated that the government is treating the matter with utmost seriousness. “A thorough investigation will be conducted, and those found guilty will face strict action,” he said.

The case has sparked widespread outrage, raising fresh concerns about corruption in India’s bureaucratic system.