Laptop scam: Special Investigation Officer appointed

BELAGAVI

Belagavi City Corporation (BCC) Commissioner B Shubha has ordered a detailed probe into alleged irregularities in the purchase and distribution of laptops to SC/ST students. The decision follows public protests and concerns over inflated pricing and the use of pirated software on the devices.

Last month, BCC distributed 203 laptops to meritorious SC/ST students using unutilised funds from the past three years, along with grants from the State Finance Commission (SFC). However, Dalit organisations accused the corporation of distributing substandard laptops at inflated prices, sparking protests across the city.

During the recent council meeting, corporators including Advocate Hanumant Kongali, Ravi Dhotre, Ramesh Sontakki, and Dinesh Nashipudi raised serious concerns about the procurement process. Commissioner Shubha responded by announcing the appointment of a special officer to conduct a comprehensive investigation.

She revealed that laptops given to 10 students were retrieved for examination after reports surfaced about pirated software being pre-installed. Corporators also questioned the payment of ₹49,000 per laptop despite the maximum retail price being ₹35,000. Initial findings suggest the local HP distributor was asked to provide a cost breakdown based on specific requirements. The contractor reportedly charged an additional ₹10,000 for installing Windows and other software — a matter currently under scrutiny.

MLA Abhay Patil criticised officials for allegedly misleading corporators and strongly demanded accountability. Mayor Mangesh Pawar directed Commissioner Shubha to present the final investigation report to the council once the probe is complete. The outcome is expected to clarify the extent of the irregularities and recommend action against those responsible.