Sun Feb 22 16:11:32 UTC 2026: Headline: Karnataka BJP MLA Chandru Lamani Arrested in Bribery Case, Remanded to Judicial Custody

The Story:
On February 21, 2026, Shirahatti BJP MLA Dr. Chandru Lamani was apprehended by the Lokayukta Police in Laxmeshwar, Gadag district, while allegedly accepting a bribe of ₹5 lakh from a contractor. Dr. Lamani, along with his personal assistant Manjunath Valmiki and an associate Guru Naik, were subsequently brought to Bengaluru and produced before a special court magistrate. All three were remanded in judicial custody until March 3, 2026, and Dr. Lamani was transferred to Parappana Agrahara Central Prison.

Key Points:

  • February 21, 2026: Dr. Chandru Lamani, a BJP MLA, was arrested for allegedly accepting a bribe.
  • The arrest took place in a private hospital in Laxmeshwar, Gadag district.
  • ₹5 lakh was seized during the raid.
  • Dr. Lamani, his personal assistant, and an associate were remanded in judicial custody until March 3, 2026.
  • The Gadag Lokayukta Police acted on a complaint from a contractor who alleged Dr. Lamani demanded a bribe of ₹11 lakh.

Critical Analysis:
The arrest of Chandru Lamani occurs on the same day as news reports of another BJP MLA, Byrathi Basavaraj, being remanded in judicial custody in a murder case. The close proximity of these events raises concerns about a potential pattern of legal troubles within the Karnataka BJP.

Key Takeaways:

  • The arrest of a sitting MLA on corruption charges damages the reputation of the BJP in Karnataka.
  • The timing of this arrest, coinciding with another MLA’s legal issues, amplifies the negative publicity.
  • The Lokayukta Police are actively pursuing corruption allegations against public officials.
  • This event may lead to increased scrutiny of other BJP members and their dealings.
  • The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of corruption in Indian politics.

Impact Analysis:
The arrest of Dr. Chandru Lamani, alongside the legal issues faced by Byrathi Basavaraj, could have significant long-term implications for the BJP in Karnataka. This could impact voter confidence, potentially affecting the party’s performance in future elections. Furthermore, the increased scrutiny of politicians may lead to greater transparency and accountability in governance, or conversely, to more sophisticated methods of concealing illicit activities. The event underscores the critical role of anti-corruption bodies like the Lokayukta in upholding the rule of law and maintaining public trust.

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