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MUDA Case: ED Writes to Karntaka Lokyukta, States not just 14 sites, but 1095 sites worth Rs 700 crores illegally allotted

December 4, 2024, 11:50 pm

Bengaluru, Dec 4: The Enforcement Directorate officials probing an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) against Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has written to the police chief of Karnataka Lokayukta apprising them of the former’s probe details into the MUDA irregularities and the money laundering charges levelled against the accused persons in the MUDA scam – conveying that a total of 1095 sites having a market Value of more than Rs. 700 Crores have been illegally allotted to beneficiaries in Karnataka.

In its letter the Lokayukta police chief, the ED officials stated that these 1095 plots, having a guideline value of Rs. 490 crores – have been allotted in the name of Benami/dummy persons in the guise of land losers and that the actual beneficiaries of these land were real estate businessmen and influential persons.

This development comes a day before the petition filed by the Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah – challenging the Karnataka’s High Court Order that upheld the Karntaka’s Governor’s sanction for prosecution against Siddaramaiah – which is coming up for hearing on December 5th.

The MUDA scam where Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his family members have been accused of usurping 14 high-valued plots in Mysuru’s prime location continues to be a thorn in the flesh for the mass leader even as the Lokayukta is continuing its probe into the irregularities and also after the CM’s wife BM Parvathi returned back the controversial 14 sites to the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA).

In its letter to the Lokayukta, the ED officials also highlighted that their findings into the ECIR probe revealed that not only that the lands were illegally notified, they were illegally converted for residential purposes. And with this, the gifting of the land to the CM’s wife Parvathi and the allotment of sites against land also becomes illegal, the letter noted.

Further on, the illegal allotment of sites has been made for money, immovable properties, vehicles etc., especially by one GT Dinesh Kumar who was a former commissioner of MUDA. These illegal sites have been obtained by influential people and real estate businessmen who further sold these proceeds of crime to other unsuspecting customers. And the money received from selling of these proceeds of crime is being projected untainted as commission and/or profit from real estate business or the same are being parked in the name of Benami/relatives, the ED’s letter stated.

Reacting to these developments, Home Minister G Parameshwara and the IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge addressing a press conference in Bengaluru stated that the Enforcement Directorate has become Enslaved Directorate of the Centre that is working as a puppet of Union government targeting the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government in the State. Kharge also questioned as to what jurisdiction does the Enforcement Directorate have to get itself involved in land denotification cases and it was all politically motivated.

MUDA Scam: RTI Activist Accuses Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah of Misusing Influence

November 12, 2024, 11:16 am

In fresh allegations related to the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam, RTI activist Snehamayi Krishna has claimed that Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah improperly influenced the allotment of a plot. Krishna alleged on Tuesday that the CM’s wife, Parvathi, was allocated a MUDA site without paying the required deed fee, which was instead covered by a MUDA Tehsildar.

Krishna, one of the primary complainants in the alleged MUDA scam, shared documents suggesting that the special Tehsildar paid the stamp duty on the land allotted to Parvathi, questioning whether further evidence was needed to establish Siddaramaiah’s influence. “Will Siddaramaiah answer to the people on this issue?” Krishna asked on social media.

Meanwhile, Congress spokesperson M. Lakshmana criticized Krishna for publicly releasing documents amid an ongoing investigation, suggesting that a complaint may be filed against the activist for attempting to tarnish the CM’s reputation. “A complaint may be filed against Snehamayi Krishna for trying to defame the CM with alleged documents on social media,” Lakshmana stated.

A week earlier, Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy also raised doubts about the credibility of the Lokayukta Police’s investigation into Siddaramaiah, questioning if a superintendent-level officer could effectively investigate a sitting Chief Minister. Siddaramaiah, who recently appeared before the Lokayukta Police, emphasized the independence of the Lokayukta and noted that the governor had recommended the MUDA case for investigation by the agency.

MUDA Scam: Karnataka BJP President Accuses Siddaramaiah Govt of Corruption

October 7, 2024, 2:03 pm

In a sharp critique of the Congress-led Karnataka government, BJP state president Vijayendra on Monday accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of corruption, alleging that anarchy has been created in the state. Vijayendra’s remarks came after meeting with Congress leader and PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi, demanding a transparent investigation into the Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam.

“We are demanding a transparent investigation into the MUDA scam. The Siddaramaiah government is mired in corruption, and the state has created anarchy. The MUDA and Valmiki scams should be thoroughly investigated. The Chief Minister’s actions have shown that wrongdoing has occurred,” Vijayendra stated.

In addition to addressing the MUDA scam, Vijayendra raised concerns about two tolls on a state highway causing difficulties for farmers and students. “Farmers are inconvenienced, and it is difficult for children to go to school. We have requested the PWD Minister to shift the tolls, and he has positively assured us that a meeting with officials will be called soon,” Vijayendra said.

Jarkiholi Refutes BJP’s Claims of Government Collapse

In response to BJP’s assertions that the Congress government is on the verge of collapse, PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi dismissed the claims, affirming that Siddaramaiah would remain in office. “There is no question of Siddaramaiah resigning. The BJP keeps alleging that our government will fall, but there is no chance of that happening,” Jarkiholi countered.

Siddaramaiah Defends His Government Amid MUDA Scam Allegations

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has faced mounting pressure over the MUDA land scam, last week reiterated his refusal to step down. He emphasized that his government enjoys the support of the people and will complete its full five-year term.

“I became Chief Minister with the blessings of the people. No one can do anything until we have their support. We will continue to govern for five years,” Siddaramaiah stated. He further expressed confidence in his integrity, saying, “I believe in the courts and my conscience. As Gandhiji said, the court of conscience is the highest of all courts.”

The MUDA land allotment scam gained attention when the Enforcement Directorate (ED) booked Siddaramaiah for money laundering related to the alleged illegal allotment of 14 sites worth Rs 56 crore to his wife, Parvathi. Following a court order, the Mysuru Lokayukta officially launched an inquiry into the case on September 27. In response, Parvathi Siddaramaiah offered to surrender the 14 plots to the MUDA Commissioner. The investigation continues to unfold as political tensions rise in Karnataka.

MUDA Scam: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Offers Puja at Chamundeshwari Temple

October 3, 2024, 5:09 pm

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah visited the Chamundeshwari temple on Thursday to participate in the inauguration of the 10-day Dussehra festival in Mysuru. Along with offering puja to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the Chief Minister attended the inaugural ceremony, where noted writer Hampa Nagarajaiah, the event’s chief guest, officially launched the grand festivities by lighting a ceremonial lamp and showering flowers on the idol of the Goddess.

Several high-profile political figures, including Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and ministers H K Patil, K Venkatesh, and Dr H C Mahadevappa, were also present for the occasion.

MUDA Land Scam Investigation Continues

Siddaramaiah’s visit to the temple coincides with an ongoing investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) into his alleged involvement in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land allotment scam. The scam involves allegations that the Chief Minister’s wife, Parvathi, was unlawfully allotted 14 prime plots in Mysuru city by MUDA. The plots, valued at Rs 56 crore, have become the focus of the probe, with the Mysuru Lokayukta officially initiating an inquiry following a court order to file an FIR on September 27.

In response to the allegations, Siddaramaiah’s wife has offered to surrender the plots to the MUDA Commissioner, while the Chief Minister has maintained his innocence. He asserted that the land in question was gifted to his wife by her brother and that MUDA had encroached upon it. He emphasized that his wife never specified the location of the plots, and the sites in Vijayanagara were allotted without her explicit request.

Chief Minister Denounces BJP Amid Allegations

Facing mounting political pressure, Siddaramaiah took aim at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing the party of using the scam to fuel political conflict. He dismissed the allegations of money laundering as irrelevant to his case and claimed that his wife’s actions were motivated by a desire to avoid controversy. Additionally, he accused the BJP of aligning with the ideology of Nathuram Godse and called on the public to resist the party’s efforts to shape India according to Godse’s principles.

The investigation into the MUDA land allotment scam continues, with political tensions running high in Karnataka as the Chief Minister defends himself against these charges.

MUDA Scam: RTI Activist Demands Thorough Investigation Claims “thousands of crores of corruption”

October 2, 2024, 7:57 pm

Snehamayi Krishna, an RTI activist and one of the petitioners in the alleged Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam, has called for a comprehensive investigation into what he claims involves “thousands of crores of corruption.” Krishna is scheduled to appear before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday, armed with documents related to the case.

Focus on Plot Allotments Since 2015

Krishna emphasized that his complaint is not limited to a single case but concerns all plot allotments by MUDA since 2015. “The Siddaramaiah case is just an example. My demand is a thorough inquiry into the allotment of plots from 2015, particularly the 50:50 land allotment ratio,” he told ANI on Wednesday.

ED Summons and Ongoing Investigation

On Tuesday, the ED summoned Krishna to provide documents related to the alleged scam. His complaint accuses Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of being involved in illegal land allotments by MUDA. The ED has already registered an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) linked to the money laundering allegations against Siddaramaiah.

Allegations Against Karnataka CM and Family

The inquiry gained further momentum after Siddaramaiah’s wife, Parvathi, offered to surrender 14 plots, valued at Rs 56 crore, which had allegedly been illegally allotted to her by MUDA in prime areas of Mysuru city. The Lokayukta of Mysuru has initiated an investigation into the matter following a court order issued on September 27.

The investigation is expected to reveal further details surrounding the land allotment process and potential illegalities involving prominent political figures.

“Bhrashtachar Ke Bhaijaan…”: BJP Targets Congress Over Alleged MUDA Scam

September 27, 2024, 6:54 pm

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) intensified its criticism of the Karnataka Congress on Friday, alleging that the party is attempting to shield itself from scrutiny related to the alleged MUDA “scam.” BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla labeled Congress as “Bhrashtachar Ke Bhaijaan,” suggesting that they have shifted focus from governance to corruption. He made these remarks during a press conference, questioning the moral authority of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to remain in office amid allegations of corrupt practices benefiting family members.

Claims of Family-Centric Governance

Poonawalla asserted that the Congress party has a history of entangling itself with land-related corruption, stating, “Congress is a ‘zameen se judi hui’ party.” He cited various instances, including the National Herald case and allegations in Haryana, where Congress members allegedly register land in the names of their relatives. According to him, the party’s governance is fundamentally about enriching family members through corrupt means.

Accusations of Evasion and Thievery

The BJP spokesperson alleged that the Congress’s response to the revelations of the MUDA scam has been akin to that of “certified looters.” He claimed that the party withdrew general consent for a CBI investigation to evade accountability. “They are behaving like professional thieves, and their approach toward corruption has become pervasive across the country,” Poonawalla stated.

Reactions to Recent Developments

Highlighting recent actions taken against the Chief Minister, Poonawalla mentioned that Siddaramaiah faced criticism from the Karnataka Governor and the Karnataka High Court regarding the MUDA scam. He also noted that Congress leaders insulted and verbally attacked the Governor in their defense.

Poonawalla further criticized Congress’s treatment of journalists, claiming that they attempted to stifle media inquiries when confronted about their actions. “This shows that Congress isn’t running a ‘Mohabbat Ki Dukaan,’ but rather is a ‘Bhrashtachar Ke Bhaijaan,'” he asserted.

The BJP spokesperson concluded by emphasizing that the recent withdrawal of consent for a CBI probe reflects a guilty mindset within the Congress government. “This move is a clear attempt to block the CBI to avoid investigation,” he said, questioning the timing of the Congress’s claims that the CBI was acting vindictively since their government was formed in May 2023.

Earlier on Thursday, the Karnataka government announced the withdrawal of open consent to the CBI for conducting investigations in the state, raising concerns about accountability and transparency in governance.

Muda Scam: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Named As Primary Accused In Lokayukta FIR

September 27, 2024, 5:14 pm

On Friday, the Karnataka Lokayukta Police filed an FIR, naming Chief Minister Siddaramaiah as the first accused in the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam. This significant development comes just 48 hours after a special court for elected representatives in Bengaluru directed the Mysuru Lokayukta SP to file an FIR, investigate, and submit a report against CM Siddaramaiah, his wife, and his brother-in-law in connection with the scam.

CM Siddaramaiah has also been booked under provisions of the IPC and the Prohibition of Benami Transactions and Land Grabbing Acts. The petitioner in the MUDA scam case, RTI activist Snehamayi Krishna, has registered a complaint identifying Siddaramaiah as the prime accused, his wife Parvathy as the second accused, his brother-in-law Mallikarjuna Swamy as the third, and landowner Devaraju as the fourth accused.

Following these developments, the top brass of the Lokayukta held a meeting at their headquarters in Bengaluru to discuss the future course of action regarding this case.

Minister Pralhad Joshi Demands Karnataka CM’s Resignation, Calls for CBI Investigation in MUDA Scam

September 24, 2024, 2:54 pm

Following the Karnataka High Court‘s dismissal of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s petition challenging the Governor’s approval for an investigation into the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has called for a CBI inquiry. He also urged Siddaramaiah to step down as the Chief Minister to allow for an impartial investigation.

Joshi pointed to the illegal allocation of over 500 to 1000 sites, many of which were distributed in recent months, as grounds for a thorough investigation. “This is a huge scam, and it cannot happen without political influence. Therefore, I strongly urge the Chief Minister to resign,” Joshi stated, calling the High Court’s ruling an “eye-opener” for the Congress-led government.

Echoing similar sentiments, BJP MP Jagadish Shettar insisted that Siddaramaiah resign on moral grounds, citing the involvement of both the CM and his wife in the alleged scam. “An impartial investigation must begin, and for that, the Chief Minister must step down,” Shettar added.

BJP state president BY Vijayendra also reiterated the party’s stance, asserting that the Congress government has been mired in corruption. “The High Court’s decision is clear. All are equal before the law, and Siddaramaiah should resign,” Vijayendra said.

In response, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar dismissed the resignation calls, labeling them a political conspiracy by the BJP. “The Chief Minister has done nothing wrong, and this is an attempt to create problems for opposition leaders,” Shivakumar said. He emphasized that the Congress stands firmly behind Siddaramaiah and respects the legal process.

The Karnataka High Court’s dismissal of Siddaramaiah’s petition clears the way for an investigation into the alleged illegalities surrounding the allotment of 14 sites by MUDA to the Chief Minister’s wife. Justice Nagaprasanna, who delivered the verdict, stated that the Governor’s approval for prosecution does not suffer from non-application of mind.

Karnataka CM Confident of Relief from Court Amid MUDA ‘Scam’ Allegations

August 19, 2024, 3:13 pm

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday expressed confidence in receiving relief from the High Court amid allegations related to the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) ‘scam.’ The CM revealed that a writ petition has been filed challenging Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot’s sanction for his prosecution in the case. Siddaramaiah stated that he is confident the Court would grant him relief, maintaining that he has done nothing wrong.

“I have sought an injunction against the prosecution as interim relief through the writ petition. Eminent lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi will represent me in court. My conscience is clear; I have done nothing wrong. I have served as a minister for 40 years without a blemish on my record. My political life is an open book, and the people of Karnataka know that I am innocent. I am fully confident that the Court will grant me relief,” Siddaramaiah asserted.

Responding to protests by the BJP demanding his resignation, Siddaramaiah accused the BJP, JD(S), and the central government of conspiring against him using the Raj Bhavan. “This is a politically motivated attempt to tarnish my image. The BJP is protesting with malicious intent, but we will fight this both legally and politically. I have faced many political challenges, and I will face this one with renewed determination,” he said.

Siddaramaiah further criticized the BJP for trying to end his political career, claiming that their actions stem from frustration over the successful implementation of welfare schemes in the state. “The opposition is troubled because I stand for the poor. The successful rollout of guarantee schemes is causing them concern,” he remarked.

Earlier in the day, Siddaramaiah criticized Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka for drawing parallels between his situation and former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa’s resignation in 2011. Siddaramaiah pointed out that Yediyurappa stepped down following an investigation report on illegal mining, not merely due to the Governor’s sanction for prosecution, and accused Ashoka of “demonstrating ignorance.”

The controversy stems from a complaint filed by social activist Snehamayi Krishna against Siddaramaiah and nine others, alleging that they forged documents to claim compensation from MUDA. In response, CM Siddaramaiah moved the High Court, seeking the cancellation of the Governor’s sanction for prosecution.

Karnataka CM Challenges Governor’s Decision to Prosecute Him in MUDA Scam; Congress Seeks Presidential Intervention

August 19, 2024, 12:23 pm

On Monday, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah challenged Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot’s decision to allow his prosecution in the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land scam case by filing a writ petition with the High Court. Siddaramaiah is seeking to have the prosecution sanction overturned. Justice Hemant Chandangoudar’s single-judge bench is scheduled to hear the petition at 2:30 pm today.

In response, Congress leader Ramesh Babu has urged President Droupadi Murmu to intervene and withdraw the prosecution sanction against Siddaramaiah. In his letter, Babu expressed deep concern over what he described as a politically motivated act by Governor Gehlot, asserting that it threatens the core of democratic principles and constitutional values. He accused the Governor of taking a “political vendetta” approach by granting permission for prosecution, which he believes is influenced by the central government’s political interests. Babu alleged that the BJP and its allies, including the JD(S), are misusing the Governor’s office to undermine the elected Karnataka government.

Babu also emphasized his belief in democratic values and urged President Murmu to address the matter urgently to prevent further erosion of democratic norms.

In the meantime, Karnataka Congress workers have protested the Governor’s decision to permit the prosecution of CM Siddaramaiah in connection with the alleged MUDA scam. The controversy erupted after social activist Snehamayi Krishna accused Siddaramaiah and nine others of document forgery to claim compensation from MUDA.

MUDA Scam: Cong Announces Statewide Protest Against Governor’s Nod to Prosecute CM

August 18, 2024, 4:15 pm

The Karnataka Congress has announced a statewide protest on Monday in response to Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot’s approval of prosecution against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in connection with the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar confirmed that party workers and leaders will hold demonstrations at district centers across the state.

“On Monday, a state-wide protest will be organized against the Governor’s decision to grant prosecution permission against the Chief Minister. Our protest will be peaceful and based on Gandhian principles, though we remain cautious of potential disruptions by miscreants,” Shivakumar stated.

He added that Congress has already briefed All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge about the situation and ongoing developments. However, when asked about extending the protests nationwide, Shivakumar said that a decision on that would be made by the AICC.

Addressing the demands for CM Siddaramaiah’s resignation, Shivakumar dismissed the possibility, describing the situation as a “conspiracy” by the BJP to destabilize the Congress government in Karnataka by misusing the Governor’s office.

“There is no question of the CM resigning. The entire party and the government are firmly behind him. The INDIA alliance has also expressed its solidarity with the CM. These are false allegations, and we will fight them legally and politically,” Shivakumar asserted during a press conference at Vidhana Soudha alongside his Cabinet colleagues.

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot granted permission for prosecution under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and Section 218 of the Bharatiya Nagarika Suraksha Samhita, 2023. The order, issued by the Governor’s Secretariat on August 17, followed a complaint by social activist Snehamayi Krishna, alleging that CM Siddaramaiah and nine others forged documents to claim compensation from the MUDA.

The protests by Congress mark a significant escalation in the political tension surrounding the allegations, with the party firmly backing Siddaramaiah amidst calls from the opposition for his resignation.

Priyank Kharge alleges ‘Raj Bhavan misuse’ after Karnataka Governor allows prosecution of CM Siddaramaiah in MUDA ‘scam’

August 17, 2024, 2:29 pm

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge accused the Central government of orchestrating the Karnataka Governor’s decision to allow the prosecution of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam. On Saturday, Kharge posted on X, claiming that Raj Bhavan is being misused as a tool by the BJP to undermine the state’s democratically elected government. He further stated that the Governor is creating a constitutional crisis to please his political superiors but expressed confidence that the Constitution is on their side.

This reaction followed the Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot’s decision to permit the prosecution of CM Siddaramaiah, which was reported by Raj Bhavan sources on Saturday. In response, the Karnataka government announced plans to challenge the Governor’s decision in the High Court.

Earlier, CM Siddaramaiah denied any wrongdoing, stating that everything related to the MUDA case was done according to the law. He emphasized that his wife received a replacement plot in 2021, during the BJP government, as per legal procedures.

Congress MP Manickam Tagore echoed Kharge’s sentiments, alleging that the Governor’s office is being used to tarnish an honest OBC leader. He expressed confidence that the people’s will would prevail against these tactics.

On the other hand, BJP state president BY Vijayendra defended the Governor’s decision, arguing that he acted within his constitutional powers. Vijayendra also accused Siddaramaiah of corruption, asserting that sufficient evidence supports the allegations against him and his government.

The controversy stems from a complaint filed by social activist Snehamayi Krishna, accusing CM Siddaramaiah and nine others of forging documents to claim compensation from the Mysuru Urban Development Authority.

Demand for Debate on MUDA Scam: BJP Stages Overnight Protest in Karnataka Assembly

July 25, 2024, 8:45 am

BJP MLAs, including Leader of Opposition R Ashok and Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra, spent Wednesday night in the assembly protesting and demanding a discussion on the alleged Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam.

The Karnataka BJP unit is calling for the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, accusing him of being the “father of the MUDA scam.”

“The multi-crore corruption of the Valmiki Development Corporation by the corrupt Congress government betrays the scheduled caste communities by misusing funds meant for their development,” the BJP stated on X. The protest, led by state president BY Vijayendra and Leader of Opposition R Ashok, saw BJP and JDS members of both Houses participate in an hourly sit-in satyagraha at Vidhansauda. “We demand the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the father of the MUDA scam. Our struggle will continue until justice is served to the Scheduled Tribe communities and the poor,” they added.

State BJP President Vijayendra condemned the Mysore MUDA scam and reiterated the call for Siddaramaiah’s resignation, highlighting the multi-crore corruption involving the Valmiki Development Corporation. He criticized Siddaramaiah for trying to avoid responsibility by claiming ignorance of the scam. “Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who holds the finance portfolio, says he is not responsible for the protection of Rs 187 crores of Valmiki Corporation. This is a cunning ploy to evade responsibility, which will be exposed during the investigation,” Vijayendra said.

Vijayendra accused the state government of betraying the Scheduled Castes by diverting funds meant for their welfare and questioned why the government hesitated to investigate the MUDA scam. “You are the father of this scam, having illegally acquired 14 plots in your wife’s name, defrauding the beneficiaries and the dignity of the Chief Minister’s office,” he said.

The BJP leader also criticized the state government for suppressing freedom of expression and likened their actions to the Emergency imposed by former PM Indira Gandhi in 1975. “Our struggle is against your repressive attitude, and it will continue until your government, which is trying to darken the democratic system and protect corruption, is removed from power,” he stated.

BJP leader Dr. CN Ashwath Narayan said their protest is a response to the state government’s rejection of their request for a discussion on the MUDA scam, which he claimed involved over four thousand crores and implicated the Chief Minister and his family. “By rejecting our request for discussion, they disrespected the Constitution. That’s why the BJP and JDS in the Legislative Council and Assembly are demanding the CM’s resignation and are protesting by sleeping inside the assembly,” he said.

MUDA Scam: Complaint filed against Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah, 9 others

July 10, 2024, 2:30 pm

A complaint has been filed against Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and nine others, accusing them of forging documents to claim compensation from the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). The complaint, lodged by social activist Snehamayi Krishna at Vijayanagar Police Station in Mysuru, implicates Siddaramaiah, his wife Parvathy, his brother-in-law Mallikarjuna Swamy Devaraj (who claimed to be a landowner), and other family members.

The complaint also alleges the involvement of several officials, including the deputy commissioner, tahsildar, deputy registrar, and MUDA officials, in the scheme. Additionally, letters have been sent to the governor, the state chief secretary, and the principal secretary of the revenue department. Krishna alleges that MUDA fabricated documents to fraudulently acquire plots worth crores of rupees.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has called for an impartial investigation into the alleged MUDA scam, urging the state government to transfer the case to the CBI. Joshi stated, “It is alleged that it is a more than Rs 3,800 crores scam, and plots duly authorized by MUDA have been transferred in the name of the wife of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. There is a huge scam, and the then DC, who has now been transferred to cover up the same, had written more than 15 letters to the state government to look into the matter and show proper directions to MUDA. In spite of that, they did not act, and Siddaramaiah got very valuable land.”

In contrast, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar dismissed allegations of any scam in MUDA site allocation, stating there have been no scams during the Congress tenure in the state. He remarked, “All the scams that the state witnessed have taken place during the BJP tenure. We will respond to all the allegations during the session.”

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed that an investigation is underway to ascertain if there was any misuse in the allotment of MUDA plots. He explained, “The plots are currently on hold, and there has been no loss to the government. Those involved in the plot allotment have been transferred, and a senior IAS officer is leading the investigation. A final decision will be made after the report is submitted.”

Responding to the BJP’s allegations and their demand for a CBI inquiry, Siddaramaiah questioned, “Why do they want to hand over everything to the CBI?”