By A Bengaluru court has ordered the Lokayukta police to investigate Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah regarding allegations of irregularities in the allotment of Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) sites. Special Court Judge Santhosh Gajanan Bhat issued the directive on September 25, 2024, after the Karnataka High Court upheld the Governor’s sanction for an inquiry into the matter.
Investigation Timeline Set
The court has instructed the Lokayukta to submit its investigation report by December 24. This decision comes after the Governor, Thaawarchand Gehlot, approved an inquiry based on complaints from activists who alleged that Siddaramaiah benefited from the improper allocation of valuable MUDA plots.
Siddaramaiah’s Response
In response to the allegations, Siddaramaiah expressed confidence, stating, “I am ready to face an investigation. I am not afraid of a probe.” He reiterated his willingness to engage in a legal battle to clear his name.
High Court Ruling
The Karnataka High Court dismissed Siddaramaiah’s appeal against the Governor’s order, affirming that the inquiry under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, was warranted. Justice M. Nagaprasanna noted that although governors usually act based on the advice of the Council of Ministers, there are exceptional circumstances where independent action is justified.
Opposition Calls for Resignation
The ruling has prompted the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to demand Siddaramaiah’s resignation to facilitate an independent investigation. BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar stated, “The high court has validated the action of the governor. We demand that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah resign.”
Siddaramaiah’s Defense
Siddaramaiah has denied any wrongdoing, labeling the allegations as politically motivated. He questioned the opposition’s demand for his resignation, asking, “Why should I resign? It is only said that an inquiry needs to be done. I will answer them politically because it is a conspiracy.”
