Startup founder says BBMP sought bribe for water connection, gave official & unofficial options
In a shocking revelation, 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 highlights the deep-seated corruption that plagues India’s civic bodies, making it difficult for entrepreneurs to set up and run businesses in the country.
According to Reddy, the road-cutting work was necessary as the water pipeline was located on the opposite side of the road, and the connection needed to be laid across the road to reach his startup’s premises. However, when he approached the BBMP officials to obtain the necessary permission, he was met with demands for bribes. The officials allegedly asked Reddy to pay ₹80,000 as the official payment for the road-cutting work, along with an additional ₹20,000 as a bribe.
What’s even more astonishing is that the officials gave Reddy an “unofficial” option, where he could pay ₹40,000, but would have to restore the road himself after the water connection work was completed. This unofficial option is a clear indication of the rampant corruption that exists within the BBMP, where officials are willing to bend rules and regulations in exchange for money.
Reddy’s experience is not an isolated incident, and many entrepreneurs and citizens in Bengaluru have faced similar issues when dealing with the BBMP. The civic body has been marred by corruption and inefficiency, making it difficult for people to obtain even basic services like water connections. The demand for bribes is a common phenomenon, and many people are forced to pay up to avoid delays and harassment.
The BBMP’s actions are not only unethical but also illegal. The Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement Act, 1999, and the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, clearly prohibit the demand and acceptance of bribes by public officials. The BBMP officials’ behavior is a clear violation of these laws, and they should be held accountable for their actions.
The incident also highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability within the BBMP. The civic body should implement measures to prevent corruption and ensure that officials are held accountable for their actions. This could include the introduction of online portals for obtaining permissions and services, where citizens can track the status of their applications and make payments online.
Furthermore, the BBMP should take steps to simplify the process of obtaining water connections and other services. The current system is complex and bureaucratic, making it easy for officials to demand bribes and exploit citizens. By streamlining the process and reducing the number of approvals required, the BBMP can reduce the opportunities for corruption and make it easier for citizens to access basic services.
In conclusion, the incident involving Ravichandra Reddy and the BBMP officials is a disturbing reminder of the corruption that exists within India’s civic bodies. The demand for bribes is a common phenomenon, and it is up to the government and civic bodies to take steps to prevent it. By introducing greater transparency and accountability, and simplifying the process of obtaining services, the BBMP can reduce corruption and make it easier for citizens to access basic services like water connections.
Read the full story here:
https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/bengaluru-startup-founder-flags-alleged-bribe-demands-in-road-cutting-permission-to-get-water-connection-13782156.html/amp
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