Mangaluru
Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Dinesh Gundu Rao, stated that Union Minister Pralhad Joshi could face a jail term if Justice Michael D’Cunha files a formal complaint over his comments. Rao emphasized that Joshi is already in trouble, and while the state government has met with the Governor, it remains unclear what actions Justice D’Cunha will take. Justice D’Cunha, who led the inquiry into the Covid scam, holds a magistrate’s status. According to the Commissions of Inquiry Act, if Joshi’s alleged arrogant statements against the judge are proven, he could face punishment. “Joshi should not have spoken against a judge in such a manner,” Rao told reporters on Saturday.
Refuting claims from the BJP that the Covid inquiry is politically motivated, Rao defended Justice D’Cunha’s integrity, describing him as an honest judge. He explained that the inquiry was initiated based on reports from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and their party, not with malice. The government set up an inquiry committee after coming to power, and Justice D’Cunha’s first report has already highlighted various corruption issues. “We are acting on the report and will continue to do so as per the law,” Rao said, adding that further action would be taken as required by the commission’s findings.
