The Lokayukta is seeking the Governor’s nod to prosecute Zameer

The Karnataka Lokayukta has asked the governor for sanction to prosecute former minister and senior Congress leader BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan in a disproportionate assets (DA) case, alleging that he had amassed assets worth around ₹25 crore beyond his known sources of income.

According to official sources, the Lokayukta on Thursday submitted a thousands-page proposal along with supporting documents to Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot seeking his approval to file the chargesheet in the special Lokayukta court. Investigators reportedly found evidence that Mr Khan had amassed assets disproportionate to his declared income during his tenure as an MLA and minister.

If the Governor gives sanction to the prosecution, the Lokayukta will be able to file the charge-sheet in a special court, paving the way for a criminal trial.

Mr Khan was in controversy recently following allegations that he tried to sabotage the Congress’s chances in the Davangere by-polls.

It comes from IMA

The disproportionate assets investigation has its origins in the 2018 IMA (I Monetary Advisory) fraud investigation. During searches conducted by the Enforcement Directorate at Mr. Khan’s headquarters and offices, investigators reportedly found material indicating a possible accumulation of illegal assets. The ED subsequently recommended that the then Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) register a case and investigate the allegations.

After the ACB was disbanded in Karnataka, the case was handed over to the Lokayukta Police, which continued the investigation.

The probe, overseen by Lokayukta officers, examined Mr Khan’s financial records from 2005 to 2025, covering the period from his first election as an MLA to his stint as a five-time legislator and three-time minister.

According to the sources, investigators reviewed his declared income, assets, business interests, banking and financial transactions spanning two decades before concluding that he allegedly acquired assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.

The investigation reportedly looked into Mr Khan’s assets, his expenses, foreign travel, financial transactions and loans received from and extended to several acquaintances. Investigators were also reportedly looking into financial transactions involving several political leaders, business associates, friends and family members.

Sources said the investigation found discrepancies in records related to loans it allegedly borrowed from more than 30 individuals, as well as money allegedly advanced to others, with insufficient documentation of repayments.

The Lokayukta police questioned Mr. Khan, his family members, friends and business associates during the course of the investigation. The allegations remain under investigation and any prosecution will be subject to the governor’s approval and subsequent court proceedings, a Lokayukta source said.

Published – 11 Jul 2026 22:03 IST