Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has constituted a dedicated Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate complaints involving alleged fraudulent claims made before insurance companies across the state.
The specialised unit has been formed in compliance with directions issued by the Supreme Court in Special Leave Petition (Civil) No. 5582/2023. The apex court had directed states to establish special teams at the state level to deal with complaints related to fraudulent insurance claims.
According to a government order issued on Wednesday, September 23, the SIT will have jurisdiction across Karnataka.
SIT Structure and Powers
The unit will be headed by an Inspector General of Police (IGP). A Superintendent of Police from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), nominated for the purpose, will also be part of the team.
The SIT will additionally comprise a Deputy Superintendent of Police and three Police Inspectors. These officers will be nominated by the Director General and Inspector General of Police.
The state government has declared the SIT as a police station under Section 2(1)(u) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. This allows the specialised unit to formally register and investigate cases falling within its jurisdiction.
SIT officers have also been authorised under Section 193 of the BNSS to submit final investigation reports to the appropriate courts.
Statewide Jurisdiction
The SIT will operate throughout Karnataka and can take up complaints and cases relating to suspected insurance fraud from different parts of the state.
The unit will function under the direct supervision of the Additional Director General of Police, Law and Order.
The Karnataka government said the specialised structure is intended to enable coordinated and timely investigation of complaints involving suspected fraudulent insurance claims.
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