Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Dec 3: Deputy Lokayukta Justice B Veerappa has warned doctors in government hospitals not to send patients outside to purchase medicines due to shortages. He instructed that the necessary medicines should be procured and provided to patients. If this is not done, a suo motu case will be filed against the medical professional.

Justice Veerappa made these remarks during a public grievance hearing held at the zilla panchayat auditorium in Mangaluru on Monday.

He said, “Government hospitals are equipped with facilities comparable to those of private hospitals. It is unjust to ask poor patients to buy medicines from outside.”

Veerappa also addressed the increasing number of false cases being filed with the Lokayukta, stating, “Those filing false complaints will face imprisonment for one to three years.”

He further commented on the dangers of corruption, saying, “Corruption is more dangerous than cancer. As government officials, you receive good salaries. Why then engage in corruption?”

Justice Veerappa drew a comparison between the Constitution of India and the Bhagavad Gita, noting, “The Constitution of our country is like the Bhagavad Gita. However, the four pillars—executive, legislature, judiciary, and media—are not functioning properly even after 78 years of independence.”

The session was attended by deputy commissioner Mullai Muhilan, deputy manager of Lokayukta Rajshekhar, police commissioner Anupam Agarwal, SP Yathish, senior civil judge Shobha, and DCF Antony Mariappa.

Public petitions were received from 11:30 am until late evening. Contractor Robert filed a complaint about not receiving Rs 2.63 lac for completed garbage clearance work under Bajpe panchayat. Justice Veerappa instructed the concerned authorities to pay the amount within a month. He also warned Haleangady PDO to provide door numbers to applicants within a month or face imprisonment.

Citizens raised concerns about the Smart City project allegedly violating NGT orders. Justice Veerappa clarified that this matter does not fall under the jurisdiction of the Lokayukta and advised petitioners to submit a writ to the NGT.

A total of 190 applications were processed during the meeting. Rain affected the session in the evening, causing water to enter the hall through the door. Zilla panchayat staff cleared the water and allowed the meeting to continue.