Karnataka Cabinet withdraws CBI's permission to probe cases in state
What's the story
The Karnataka government on Friday withdrew its consent for any probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) within its territory.
Law Minister HK Patil cited "biased" actions by the agency as the reason behind this decision.
He dismissed any connection between this move and land scam allegations against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, stating that it was not due to MUDA (Mysuru Urban Development Authority) case.
Investigation concerns
Law Minister criticizes CBI's handling of cases
"In all the cases we have referred to the CBI, they have not filed charge sheets, leaving many cases pending. They have also refused to investigate several cases we have sent. There are numerous such instances. They are biased," Patel said.
"This decision is intended to "control them (the CBI) from taking the wrong path," Patil added.
Growing list
Karnataka joins opposition-ruled states revoking CBI consent
With this move, Karnataka has joined a growing list of opposition-ruled states that have revoked open consent for the CBI.
This includes West Bengal under the Trinamool Congress, Tamil Nadu ruled by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), and Kerala led by the Left Democratic Front (LDF).
The revocation means that the CBI now requires written consent from these state governments for investigations, as per the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act governing the agency.
Centre's reaction
Centre responds to states' revocation of CBI consent
The central government had previously expressed concern over states' actions, arguing that requiring the CBI to seek permission severely limited its powers to investigate cases.
A Parliamentary panel suggested enacting a law allowing the agency to probe cases without state "interference."
However, it also recognized the need for safeguards ensuring objectivity and impartiality in the CBI's functioning so states do not complain of discrimination.
Ongoing inquiry
CM Siddaramaiah faces inquiry in land scam case
The withdrawal of consent comes as CM Siddaramaiah faces a police case ordered by a trial court related to the alleged MUDA scam.
The inquiry will investigate claims that his wife, Parvathi, was allotted 14 sites in a premium residential layout as compensation for her 3 acres and 16 guntas of land acquired by MUDA.
This exchange allegedly cost the state losses of at least ₹4,000 crore.