D. Kempanna, who exposed ‘40% commission’ scam in Karnataka, dies of heart attack

As the President of the Karnataka State Contractors’ Association Mr. Kempanna had brought to light the ‘kickback culture’ in various government departments

D. Kempanna (84), President of the Karnataka State Contractors’ Association — who was at the forefront of the association’s fight againt the ‘40% commission’ scam by the previous BJP government — passed away after a heart attack at 10 a.m. on September 19, 2024, at his residence in Jyotipura, Bengaluru.

He had recently returned home after receiving treatment at a private hospital. The deceased is survived by his wife, a son and three daughters. Family sources said that arrangements have been made for final rites at his residence, and the funeral will be held at Jyotipura on September 20 around 3 p.m. or 4 p.m.

“Due to age-related ailments, Kempanna had restricted his movements outside for the last two or three months. However, he actively participated in the association’s work. On September 18, he also participated in the general body meeting of the association through video conference. However, he died of a heart attack on Thursday morning,” said G.M. Ravindra, secretary of the association.

Crusade against corruption

Kempanna was known for raising his voice on behalf of the contractors. Pointing to corruption in various government departments, he had alleged that officials had been demanding kickbacks for awarding contracts and clearing the bills during the BJP tenure.

He had submitted a 6,000-page dossier detailing the corruption to the H.N. Nagamohan Das Commission, which was probing the allegations. 

In February 2024, he had alleged that the “kickbacks culture” had not ended even after the Congress government had assumed power.

CM condoles death

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, whose Congress party used the ‘40% commission’ issue as a major poll plank against BJP during the 2023 Assembly elections, took to X to express his grief.

“Saddened by the death of Kempanna, President of the State Contractors’ Association. He had brought out the 40% commission scam that had made headlines across the country during the previous government’s tenure, and had taken a stand against corruption in contract works. Today, the country has lost a fearless voice that did not succumb to any pressure or temptation. I pray that his departed soul may rest in peace and his family find strength to bear this pain,” the CM wrote.

Published - September 19, 2024 12:59 pm IST