Startup founder says BBMP sought bribe for water connection, gave official & unofficial options
In a shocking revelation, a Bengaluru-based startup founder, Ravichandra Reddy, has alleged that officials from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) demanded bribes for road-cutting work related to getting a water connection. The incident has raised concerns about the prevalence of corruption in the city’s civic body and the difficulties faced by entrepreneurs in setting up their businesses.
According to Reddy, the road cutting was necessary as the water pipeline was located on the opposite side of the road, and he needed to lay a new connection to his startup’s premises. However, when he approached the BBMP officials to obtain the necessary permission, he was met with a demand for a bribe. The officials allegedly told Reddy that he had two options: pay an “official” fee of ₹80,000, which would include a ₹20,000 bribe, or opt for an “unofficial” payment of ₹40,000, in which case Reddy would have to restore the road himself.
Reddy’s allegations have sparked outrage and highlighted the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in dealing with corrupt officials. The incident has also raised questions about the transparency and accountability of the BBMP, which is responsible for providing civic amenities to the city’s residents.
The demand for a bribe is not only unethical but also illegal. The Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, prohibits the acceptance of gratification by public servants, and the BBMP officials’ alleged actions are a clear violation of this law. Furthermore, the fact that the officials provided Reddy with two options, including an “unofficial” payment, suggests a well-entrenched system of corruption within the civic body.
The incident has also highlighted the difficulties faced by startups in Bengaluru, which is often touted as India’s Silicon Valley. The city is home to numerous startups, and the ease of doing business is a critical factor in their success. However, the prevalence of corruption and the demands for bribes can be a significant deterrent for entrepreneurs, who may be forced to abandon their plans or seek alternative locations.
Reddy’s allegations have sparked a debate about the need for greater transparency and accountability within the BBMP. The civic body must take immediate action to investigate the allegations and punish the guilty officials. The BBMP must also implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future, such as introducing online application systems and ensuring that all payments are made through official channels.
Furthermore, the Karnataka government must take steps to address the issue of corruption in the state’s civic bodies. The government must introduce laws and regulations that prevent corruption and ensure that officials are held accountable for their actions. The government must also provide support to entrepreneurs and startups, ensuring that they can operate without fear of harassment or corruption.
In conclusion, the allegations made by Ravichandra Reddy are a wake-up call for the BBMP and the Karnataka government. The incident highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability within the civic body and the need for measures to prevent corruption. The government must take immediate action to address the issue and ensure that entrepreneurs and startups can operate without fear of harassment or corruption.
About the Author
