In a significant anti-corruption operation, the Lokayukta police in Gadag district of Karnataka apprehended BJP MLA Chandru Lamani for allegedly receiving a bribe. The operation occurred in the Shirahatti assembly constituency, where the MLA was caught red-handed taking money from a contractor. Following the arrest, further questioning of the MLA is underway, and a thorough investigation has been initiated into the corruption charges against him.

The Lokayukta officials reported that the operation falls under the Prevention of Corruption Act of 1988, specifically under sections 7(a) and 7(A), and is recorded as crime number 02/2026. A complaint leading to this operation was filed by Vijay Poojari, a Class-1 contractor from Chinchli in the Gadag district, who alleged that the MLA and his accomplices were demanding bribes in exchange for work contracts. The case illustrates the ongoing issues of corruption within political circles in the region.

Allegations point out that the MLA had asked for a total bribe of ₹11 lakhs for the approval of a retaining wall construction project for a road. Reports indicate that he was caught accepting ₹5 lakhs in cash from the contractor. This case not only raises questions about the integrity of public officials but also emphasizes the need for stringent measures against corruption within the state's governance structures.