NEW DELHI: Indian journalist Raju Parulekar has exposed widespread corruption in government development projects under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying that large commissions and kickbacks are undermining the use of public funds.
Speaking on senior journalist and podcaster Ashok Kumar Pandey’s programme, The Credible History, Parulekar said that corruption had become particularly serious under the current government and that a substantial portion of the money allocated for some construction projects was taken as commission.
Parulekar said that politicians and others involved in awarding public contracts could demand commissions of up to 70% of the project cost before work begins.
He argued that although commission practices had existed in the past, contractors previously still spent a larger share of the allocated funds on construction.
He added that the situation had deteriorated, leaving significantly less money available for actual work.
According to Parulekar, when a large proportion of a project’s budget is taken as commission, contractors are left with insufficient funds to pay for construction materials, labour and other costs while maintaining acceptable standards.
He said this ultimately affects the quality and durability of public infrastructure.
Ram Temple And Other Projects
During the discussion, Parulekar referred to the construction of the Ram Temple as an example while making broader allegations about government spending and corruption.
He claimed the project had been completed at a relatively low cost, without providing evidence to support the wider corruption allegations.
He also criticised the construction quality of a statue of former Indian prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, claiming that part of the structure was damaged during rainfall some time after its inauguration.
Maharashtra Government Criticised
Parulekar also criticised the Maharashtra government, referring to it sarcastically as a “three-wheeled government”.
He said the commissions were divided among different political groups and individuals at various stages of development projects.
The journalist argued that if commissions are taken before construction begins, the amount available for the actual project is reduced, making it difficult to deliver quality infrastructure within the remaining budget.
The revelation comes amid broader public debate in India over corruption, government contracts and the management of public funds.
