KRIDL Scam: Former Clerk with ₹15,000 Salary Amassed Assets Worth ₹30 Crore

KOPPAL

A massive corruption scandal has emerged in Koppal, where Kalakappa Nidagundi, a former outsourced clerk at the Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Limited (KRIDL), is alleged to have amassed assets worth around ₹30 crore over two decades—despite drawing a monthly salary of just ₹15,000.

The fraud came to light after Lokayukta officials raided Nidagundi's residence in Pragati Nagar, as part of an investigation into the misappropriation of ₹72 crore in KRIDL. The raid revealed 24 houses, six plots, 40 acres of farmland, over 1 kg of gold jewellery, multiple vehicles, and documents indicating more unaccounted assets. Properties were also found in the names of his wife and brother.

KRIDL MD Basavaraju directed Executive Engineers Anil Patil and Anand Karlakunti to file complaints against former Executive Engineer Zaranappa M Chincholikar and Nidagundi. Investigations suggest the accused fabricated documents and invoices for 96 fake infrastructure projects—including roads, sewerage, and drinking water works—executed across Kanakagiri (19), Gangavathi (5), Yelburga (4), and Koppal (68) between 2019 and 2025.

Nidagundi was dismissed from service months ago, but Chincholikar, despite being previously terminated, managed to retain his position via a court order. MLA K Raghavendra Hitnal confirmed the involvement of Nidagundi and cement supplier Amaresh Yambaladinni in collusion with Chincholikar. He assured that the government would thoroughly investigate all fraudulent projects and take strict action against those found guilty.