25-Sep-2024 04:50 PM
8450
Bengaluru, Sep 25 (Reporter) A Karnataka special court on Wednesday directed the Lokayukta to conduct an inquiry into allegations of irregularities in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) allotments to people linked to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s family.
The Lokayukta has been instructed to submit its findings within three months.
This ruling follows the Karnataka High Court's dismissal of Siddaramaiah’s plea against the governor’s August 16 order which sanctioned an investigation under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption (PC) Act, 1988.
The governor's approval was prompted by complaints from activists S P Pradeep Kumar, T J Abraham, and Snehamayi Krishna, who accused the chief minister of benefiting from the illegal allotment of valuable MUDA plots.
The case revolves around the alleged illegal allocation of 14 replacement plots worth Rs 56 crore, given in exchange for 3 acres and 16 gunte of land from survey number 464 at Kesare village in Mysuru. The complaint alleges that Siddaramaiah used his influence to manipulate MUDA officials into approving this transaction, resulting in substantial financial benefits.
The activists approached the governor in mid-2023, seeking permission to investigate and prosecute the Chief Minister. Following their request, the governor authorised the investigation on August 17.
However, Siddaramaiah challenged this decision in the Karnataka High Court on August 19, seeking a stay on the governor’s order. His counsel argued for an injunction, while the opposing counsel objected.
The High Court’s response affirms the Governor’s permission for a preliminary investigation, indicating that the case merits further scrutiny. As the inquiry proceeds, the political and legal implications of this ruling are expected to resonate throughout Karnataka’s political arena...////...