SIT: Bhaskar Rao connived with son

BENGALURU: The special investigation team (SIT) looking into charges of corruption and extortion within the Lokayukta, has reported that the evidence it has collected thus far indicates that former Lokayukta Justice Y Bhaskar Rao actively connived with his son Y Ashwin to extort money from public servants occupying key positions.
In its response to a petition filed by Bhaskar Rao, the SIT has pointed out that he acted in conjunction with his son, Ashwin, and abused his position as Lokayukta."The incriminating material shows commissions and omissions by the petitioner, which would indicate his role in the alleged offence," the SIT has stated in its statement of objections.
It further goes on to add that Bhaskar Rao failed to initiate action even after Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) former commissioner Lakshminarayana complained to him about his son. Ashwin is alleged to have called Lakshminarayana multiple times, telling the latter there were several cases pending against him.
The SIT statement also said that Justice Rao was not entitled to immunity under section 18 of the Karnataka Lokayukta Act or section three of the Judges Protection Act. In their report, the SIT team has observed that for Justice Rao's actions to be shielded by immunity, he would have had to perform the actions as a part of his official duties, with bona fide intentions. However, the material collected by the team indicates that he was involved in the offences that he has been charged with, which do not fall under the ambit of his official duties.
Justice Anand Byrareddy adjourned the hearing to Thursday, after the counsel for Justice Rao made a request.
Governor Vajubhai Vala granted sanction to prosecute Justice Rao on July 20, 2016, and the SIT subsequently filed an additional charge sheet before the special Lokayukta court on August 3.