A shocking audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has uncovered at least ₹200 crore in irregularities within Karnataka's tourism department from 2020 to 2024. This revelation not only points to mismanagement but also raises serious questions about the oversight mechanisms in place during both the BJP and Congress administrations. The audit criticizes the department for redirecting funds away from tourism-related projects, with ₹88.2 crore meant for tourism activities diverted to non-tourism infrastructure, such as road construction, which failed to meet tourism guidelines.
The findings are particularly alarming given the lack of accountability in project execution. For instance, a project meant to construct a Yatri Nivas was instead turned into an incomplete prayer hall, with no completion report available despite a significant delay. Additionally, payments made for informative hoardings across tourist sites were not substantiated by adequate records, indicating a broader pattern of financial mismanagement.
Chief Minister D K Shivakumar's administration now faces the daunting task of addressing these findings. While he has hinted at a re-evaluation of guarantee schemes to prevent misuse, the tourism department's issues suggest a deeper governance crisis that transcends political lines. The CAG's report serves as a wake-up call, emphasizing the urgent need for transparent and effective management of public funds.
