Startup founder says BBMP sought bribe for water connection, gave official & unofficial options
In a shocking revelation, a Bengaluru-based startup founder has alleged that officials from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) demanded bribes for road-cutting work related to getting a water connection. Ravichandra Reddy, the founder, took to social media to share his experience, highlighting the rampant corruption that exists in the system. According to Reddy, the road cutting was necessary as the water pipeline was located on the opposite side of the road, and the officials demanded a hefty sum of money to grant permission for the work.
The incident has sparked outrage and concern among the citizens of Bengaluru, who are already struggling with the city’s crumbling infrastructure and inadequate civic amenities. The demand for bribes by BBMP officials is not only illegal but also a stark reminder of the deep-seated corruption that plagues the system. Reddy’s experience is a classic example of how citizens are forced to pay extra to get basic services, which are otherwise their right.
As per Reddy’s account, the officials demanded ₹80,000 as the official payment for the road-cutting work, with an additional ₹20,000 as a bribe. However, they also offered an “unofficial” option, where Reddy could pay ₹40,000, and in return, he would have to restore the road himself. This is a clear indication of the blatant corruption that exists in the system, where officials are more interested in lining their pockets than providing services to the citizens.
The fact that the officials gave Reddy two options – official and unofficial – is a clear indication of the entrenched corruption in the BBMP. It is appalling that citizens are being forced to choose between paying a bribe or taking on the additional burden of restoring the road themselves. This is not only unfair but also a clear violation of the citizens’ rights.
The BBMP’s corruption is not limited to road-cutting work; it is a pervasive problem that affects various aspects of civic life in Bengaluru. From issuing building permits to providing water connections, corruption is a constant companion for citizens. The demand for bribes has become so rampant that it has become a norm, with citizens being forced to pay extra to get even the most basic services.
The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the anti-corruption measures in place. Despite the introduction of various laws and regulations, corruption continues to thrive in the system. The fact that BBMP officials are openly demanding bribes, without fear of consequences, is a clear indication of the lack of accountability and transparency in the system.
Reddy’s experience is a wake-up call for the citizens of Bengaluru, who need to come together to demand better services and an end to corruption. It is high time that the government takes concrete steps to address the issue of corruption in the BBMP and ensures that citizens get the services they deserve without having to pay bribes.
In conclusion, the incident highlights the need for a thorough overhaul of the system to root out corruption and ensure that citizens get the services they deserve. The government needs to take concrete steps to address the issue of corruption in the BBMP and ensure that officials are held accountable for their actions. Until then, citizens like Reddy will continue to face the brunt of corruption, and the city will continue to suffer from inadequate civic amenities.
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