Karnataka BJP MLA Convicted in Corruption Case

First time ever in Karnataka, a ruling BJP sitting MLA has been convicted ina corruption case. The Lokayukta Special Court Judge N K Sudheendra Rao sentenced MLA Y Sampangi to three-and-a half year rigorous imprisonment in a bribery case and also imposed a fine of Rs. 40,000/-. On default to pay the fine, Sampangi has to undergo another six months of imprisonment.

The judge directed the Lokayukta deputy superintendent of police to issue arrest warrant on Sampangi and take him into custody. Sampangi, who represents Kolar Gold Fields assembly constituency, was trapped by Lokayukta police on January 29, 2009, while accepting Rs. 50,000 and a cheque for Rs. 4.5 lakh from a person to settle a civil dispute. He was found guilty under section 13 (1) d of the Prevention of Corruption Act in the trial that lasted more than three years.