“I have an information from the CBI that some banks have indulged in malpractices and have illegally printed document sheets in their own printing press. The government should ensure that a thorough investigation is done into it,” he told reporters after participating in the launch of e-stamping system at Vidhana Soudha.
He further said the banks have printed a large number of document sheets without the government’s permission and sold to persons who are not entitled to vend them. Only an investigation will reveal the truth. (You) Never know, a major scam may surface,” he stated.
After stamp paper scam came to light in 2003, the State government banned the use of stamp paper and introduced document sheets. It has authorised State Bank of Mysore, State Bank of India, State Bank of Hyderabad and Corporation Bank to sell document sheets, he added.
He also said the Lokayukta in its recommendations to the State government, to bring in reforms in stamps and registration department, had sounded an alert in this regard.
When asked about the action taken by the government on Lokayukta recommendations,  Revenue Department Secretary N Seetharam said that the banks have been asked to furnish all details. “So far, they (banks) have not replied. We will seriously follow it up,” Mr Seetharam added.


BRIBERY


Suspend SP: Santosh Hegde
Lokayukta justice N Santosh Hegde on Friday said he has recommended to the State government to immediately suspend Chamarajnagar SP Srikantappa, who was caught by Lokayukta sleuths while allegedly accepting bribe.
Speaking to reporters, he said investigation is on to dig out more details about the police officer’s assets.
So far, it has been found that Srikantappa owns two houses, two sites and a farm in Mysore.
 “We have information that he is into quarry business in Chamarajnagar district also. More details are expected in coming days and investigations are on,” the Lokayukta said.