Corrupt Clerk Amasses $30M Fortune in Two Decades

According to a recent investigation, Kalakappa Nidagundi, a former outsourced clerk at the Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Limited (KRIDL) office in Koppal, has allegedly amassed assets worth approximately $30 million over the past two decades. This is despite Nidagundi earning a modest monthly salary of just $15,000.

The corruption came to light on July 31, 2025, when Lokayukta officials carried out a raid at Nidagundi's residence in Pragati Nagar. The raid, which was part of an investigation into the misappropriation of $72 million in KRIDL funds, uncovered a staggering array of assets, including 24 houses, six plots, over 40 acres of agricultural land, more than 1kg of gold jewelry, and multiple vehicles. Further investigations also revealed properties registered under the names of Nidagundi's wife and brother.

The accused parties, which include former KRIDL executive engineer Zaranappa M Chincholikar and cement supplier Amaresh Yambaladinni, are alleged to have fabricated documents and invoices for 96 projects, including sewerage, road, and drinking water initiatives across several villages in the Koppal district. These fraudulent projects spanned 19 in Kanakagiri, five in Gangavathi, four in Yelburga, and 68 in Koppal taluk.

While Nidagundi was dismissed from service a few months ago, Chincholikar managed to retain his position following a court order, despite an earlier termination. Koppal MLA K Raghavendra Hitnal has confirmed the involvement of Nidagundi and Yambaladinni in the corruption scandal and assured that the government will thoroughly investigate all related works and take appropriate action against those found guilty.