MUDA Land Scam: Big Setback for Siddaramaiah, Karnataka HC Allows Probe

The Karnataka High Court has dismissed Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s petition challenging Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot’s decision to sanction his prosecution in the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land scam case.

MUDA scam

The case revolves around accusations that the Mysuru Urban Development Authority illegally distributed premium sites to Siddaramaiah’s wife, BM Parvathi. The Governor’s sanction for prosecution was based on complaints filed by activists TJ Abraham, Snehamai Krishna, and Pradeep Kumar SP, who alleged corruption in the allocation process.

What SC said

During the hearing, Supreme Court advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Siddaramaiah, argued that the Governor’s sanction was “discriminatory and politically motivated.” He stated, “The Governor’s decision to sanction prosecution is not based on merit but on political vendetta.”

On the other hand, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Governor Gehlot, defended the decision, asserting, “The Governor has acted within his constitutional powers. The allegations are serious and warrant a thorough investigation.”

Justice M. Nagaprasanna, who presided over the case, noted in his judgment, “The court finds no merit in the petition challenging the Governor’s sanction. The prosecution must proceed as per the law.”

Political reactions from BJP, Congress

The dismissal of the petition has sparked political reactions. The BJP has demanded Siddaramaiah’s resignation, with BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya stating, “After the High Court’s decision, Siddaramaiah has no option but to step down. The empire of lies built by him has completely collapsed.”

In response, the Congress party accused the Governor of acting with bias. A Congress spokesperson remarked, “This is a clear case of political witch-hunt. The Governor’s actions are aimed at tarnishing the image of our leader.”

Related Stories:

MUDA Case: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Calls Urgent CLP Meeting After Gov. Approval for Prosecution Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah swearing-in: Mamata opts out, DKS invites all Karnataka Police Bring Down Hanuman Flag Hoisted On 108-feet Pole, Siddaramaiah Defends Siddaramaiah vs DK Shivakumar: Congress High Command Divided Over Leadership Changes Karnataka Congress may appoint Vinay Kulkarni as working president soon Rahul Gandhi Granted Bail by Bengaluru Court in Defamation Case Filed by Karnataka BJP Siddaramaiah travels in luxury jet to seek draught funds; draws flak Fodder Scam: Lalu Prasad Yadav Granted Bail By Jharkhand HC