From left (K. Gopalaiah, Munirathna and
Bengaluru’ Mahalakshmi Layout MLA records staggering 1399% net worth rise: Citizens’ Report Cards
In a startling revelation from CIVIC Bangalore’s newly released Citizens’ Report Cards, K. Gopalaiah, the MLA from Mahalakshmi Layout, recorded an extraordinary 1399.57% increase in his net worth during his last term — the highest among all Bengaluru legislators. This figure far surpasses that of other prominent MLAs, including Munirathna from Rajarajeshwari Nagar, whose net worth rose by 959.63%, and N.A. Haris from Shanthinagar with a 318.62% increase. Leader of the Opposition R. Ashok too saw his wealth grow by 104%.
The Citizens’ Report Cards, made public on June 14 at is aimed to assess the performance and profiles of the city’s 4 MPs and 32 MLAs as they marked one and two years into their respective terms. Compiled by citizen volunteers and students using public data sources, the report also shed light on legislators’ participation, fund utilization, criminal cases, and legislative work.
Key MLA findings reveal that while N. Shreenivasaiah from Nelamangala showed 100% Assembly attendance, Priya Krishna ranked lowest with just 53.62%. A concerning 32% of MLAs, all private members, failed to raise even a single question in the Assembly. Additionally, none introduced Private Members’ Bills to address Bengaluru’s pressing urban governance issues.
Regarding constituency development funds, only 4 MLAs fully utilized their allotted ₹4 crore under KLLADS, while an alarming ₹40.79 crore remains unspent city-wide — some of which may be forfeited. Shockingly, S. Manjula from Mahadevapura has not allocated any of her available funds.
Among MPs, PC Mohan clocked the highest attendance at 98.51%, while Tejasvi Surya’s lagging 77.61% fell below the national average — although he compensated by actively asking questions and engaging in debates.
The report also flagged Munirathna as the Bengaluru MLA with the most criminal cases — eight, including serious charges of sexual harassment, rape, and honeytrap — underscoring the need for stricter candidate scrutiny.
Overall, the Citizens’ Report Cards expose gaps in accountability, performance, and financial transparency among Bengaluru’s elected representatives.