Bengaluru: In a major anti-corruption crackdown, Chandru Lamani, a BJP MLA from Karnataka’s Shirahatti Assembly constituency, was arrested by the Karnataka Lokayukta after he was allegedly caught red-handed while accepting a bribe of ₹5 lakh. The amount was reportedly part of a larger alleged demand of ₹11 lakh.

According to officials, the arrest followed a trap operation conducted by the Lokayukta police based on a formal complaint.

The complainant, Vijay Pujar, a Class-1 contractor from Gadag district, approached anti-corruption authorities alleging that he had been asked to pay ₹11 lakh to secure necessary clearances for a project. Unable to meet the alleged demand, Pujar informed the Lokayukta, which subsequently laid a trap.

Officials stated that ₹5 lakh — part of the alleged total demand — was being accepted when the MLA was intercepted during the operation.

Lamani was initially detained for questioning immediately after the trap operation. Following preliminary inquiry and verification procedures, he was formally placed under arrest.

Two of his personal assistants were also taken into custody in connection with the case. Authorities said further investigation is underway to determine the extent of involvement and whether additional individuals were linked to the alleged bribery network.

Lokayukta officials have indicated that evidence collected during the operation, including marked currency notes and documentation, will form part of the ongoing probe. The accused are expected to be produced before a competent court as per legal procedure.

The development has triggered political reactions across the state, with opposition parties demanding strict action and accountability.

Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.