BDA keeps files pending, Justice Kempanna panel stalled

Bengaluru: The inquiry into denotification of the Arkavathy Layout by Justice Kempanna Commission is said to be delayed following non-submission of four important files pertaining to spot inspection of the layout after preliminary notification by Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) way back in 2003.

Meanwhile, the commission which will be completing its two year tenure, was given an extension till February 28, 2017 by the State government. Though, the government issued orders on August 16, 2014 on the formation of the inquiry commission, Justice Kempanna assumed office on September 1, 2014.

Sources told Deccan Chronicle that BDA had not yet responded to letters from the commission seeking submission of four files pertaining to the spot inspection of the layout soon after preliminary notification. Repeated reminders sent to the BDA commissioner have not yielded results. The commission has summoned the BDA chief to appear before the commission to say whether the files were with the authority or missing. "Those files are very important for the inquiry since they contain details of all survey numbers and also shape of the land".

Sources said the commission dismissed a petition filed by an advocate, Mr Nataraj Sharma, seeking deposition by incumbent Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his predecessor, Mr Jagadish Shettar. The complainant had contended that their appearance before the commission was needed to depose regarding denotification of the Arkavathy layout during their tenure. Besides, he wanted them to reveall the violations made by the state government and its officers.

However, since Mr Sharma's affidavit did not mention why Mr Shettar should be summoned before the commission, the  petition was dismissed. But, the commission has powers to summon any politician including the CM  if it feels necessary, sources added.

Mr Sham Bhat, chairman of the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC)and former chairman of BDA, would be appearing before the commission for the cross examination which is scheduled for September 8 and 9.

In fact, the commissioner had already completed its job and only the argument and cross examination of officers and witnesses are pending.