Valmiki scam case: ED raids homes of Ballari and Kudligi public representatives over suspected financial irregularities

Enforcement Directorate raids in connection with Valmiki case. File | Photo Credit: PTI

In a major development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched simultaneous raids on Wednesday (June 11, 2025) morning at the residences and offices of several public representatives across Ballari district, intensifying its probe into suspected financial irregularities.

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The raids targeted the homes of Lok Sabha member from Ballari E. Tukaram, Ballari City MLA Nara Bharat Reddy, Kampli MLA J.N. Ganesh, and Ballari Rural MLA B. Nagendra’s close associate Govardhan Reddy. ED officials are currently scrutinising documents and other materials at these locations.

In a related operation, a team of ED officials also raided the residence of Kudligi MLA N.T. Srinivas in Narasimhagiri of Kudligi taluk around 5 a.m. on Wednesday. Only the MLA’s mother was present at the time, and no one else has been allowed entry. Public access to the area has been restricted. According to sources, the MLA had travelled to Tumakuru on Tuesday evening after attending various constituency events and is reportedly still there. His close associates have confirmed the ED’s presence at his residence.

While the exact nature of the investigation has not been officially disclosed, sources suggest that the raids may be linked to the ongoing probe into the Valmiki Corporation scandal. Allegations had earlier surfaced that funds from the Corporation were misused during the Ballari Lok Sabha elections.

The ED has not yet issued an official statement regarding the raids. Further details are awaited as the investigation unfolds.

Published - June 11, 2025 10:06 am IST