Court orders probe in MUDA case: Siddaramaiah says 'not afraid'
What's the story
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday expressed his readiness to face an investigation after a trial court's directive to file a police case against him.
The order was issued based on a complaint by activist Snehamayi Krishna regarding the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land scam.
"I will fight. I am not afraid of anything. We are ready to face the investigation," Siddaramaiah said after the court's order.
Investigation details
Activist demands CBI investigation
The Special Court of the People's Representatives has instructed the state's Lokayukta to conduct an inquiry into the alleged land scam and submit a report within three months.
Krishna, however, expressed dissatisfaction with this arrangement and insisted on a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe.
The inquiry will examine claims that Siddaramaiah's wife, Parvathi, was allocated multiple plots in an upscale Mysuru area as compensation for land taken for infrastructure projects—a transaction allegedly costing the state at least ₹4,000 crore.
Legal setback
High court dismisses Siddaramaiah's challenge
On Tuesday, the High Court dismissed Siddaramaiah's challenge to Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot's approval of his prosecution in the MUDA case.
The court ruled that there was "no fault in the Governor's actions."
This development has intensified calls from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ally, Janata Dal Secular, for Siddaramaiah's resignation.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi stated that "Siddaramaiah should resign, so an impartial investigation can be conducted by the CBI."
Political fallout
Congress defends Siddaramaiah
The Congress has staunchly defended Siddaramaiah amidst these allegations, dismissing them as a "political conspiracy."
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar stated unequivocally that there is no question of the Chief Minister resigning as he has not done anything wrong.
Meanwhile, BJP workers attempted to surround Siddaramaiah's Bengaluru residence following the High Court's verdict, leading to dozens being taken into custody by police.