Karnataka BJP to Challenge Lokayukta's Clean Chit for CM Siddaramaiah in MUDA Case
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Synopsis
The Karnataka BJP has declared its intention to contest if the Lokayukta clears Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in the MUDA case, citing concerns over the adequacy of the investigation. Allegations of political influence and financial irregularities persist as the ED and Karnataka High Court continue their scrutiny.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka BJP challenges Lokayukta's clean chit.
- Allegations of investigation inadequacy by the Lokayukta.
- ED's report highlights financial irregularities in MUDA.
- Demand for CBI probe into the MUDA case.
- CM Siddaramaiah's involvement questioned amid political tensions.
Shivamogga (Karnataka), Jan 23 (NationPress) The Karnataka BJP stated on Thursday that they will contest if the Lokayukta exonerates Chief Minister Siddaramaiah regarding the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) case.
Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra addressed the media in Shivamogga, saying, “Should the media reports prove correct and the Lokayukta investigative agency provides a clean chit to the Chief Minister in the MUDA scandal, it indicates that the investigation was inadequately carried out.
“The BJP’s long-standing concerns about the Lokayukta yielding to the CM's influence appear to have been validated.”
Vijayendra further stated, “Recently, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) disseminated a press release outlining financial irregularities within the MUDA, which they also provided to the press. In addition, the Karnataka High Court has thoroughly detailed the MUDA scam. Amidst this, the Chief Minister and the state government have attempted to insult and belittle the Honourable Governor, which is unacceptable.”
“If it turns out that the Lokayukta report was submitted just prior to the High Court's judgment, that is certainly improper. Such a report holds no credibility,” he asserted.
In response to inquiries, he noted, “The ED cannot issue statements to the media without substantial evidence. If the ED has indicated irregularities in the MUDA, it must be substantiated by proof. In light of the ED's findings, it seems the Chief Minister hurried to obtain a clean chit, leaving no room for doubt regarding this matter.”
Meanwhile, while addressing reporters in Bengaluru, Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka claimed on Thursday that, “Even though the ED has confiscated assets in connection with the MUDA scam, the Lokayukta police have taken no action, and there are efforts to bury the case.”
Ashoka stated, “The BJP has vehemently opposed the MUDA scam and the irregularities within the Valmiki Development Corporation. It is estimated that irregularities in the MUDA scam alone range from Rs 4,000-5,000 crore.”
“The return of 14 sites by CM Siddaramaiah demonstrates his involvement. Despite the ED's asset seizures, the Lokayukta police seem to be attempting to close the case without taking any substantial action,” Ashoka alleged.
He further demanded, “We insist that the CBI should take over this case. While officials are being scapegoated for the scandal, CM Siddaramaiah's role is being obscured. The BJP will persist in its opposition to this.”
Ashoka emphasized, “The Lokayukta police operate under the state government. They also rely on transfers and promotions, which influences their investigative approach. Even if a report is produced, it is guaranteed CM Siddaramaiah will receive a clean chit.”
Ashoka reiterated, “Only if this case is transferred to the CBI can the truth be unveiled. Former Minister B. Nagendra was cleared by the SIT, and similarly, CM Siddaramaiah is likely to be as well. Thus, we are renewing our efforts and will not relent until the investigation is assigned to the CBI.”
Sources confirmed that the Karnataka Lokayukta, investigating the MUDA case, has exonerated Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his wife B.M. Parvathi.
CM Siddaramaiah is identified as the prime accused, with Parvathi listed as the second.
Sources disclosed that the team led by Mysuru Lokayukta SP, T.J. Udesh has completed its investigation and is prepared to submit the report to the court on January 27.
The Lokayukta is finalizing consultations with legal experts prior to the court submission, sources added.
The Karnataka High Court had postponed the hearing regarding a plea for a CBI investigation related to the alleged irregularities in the MUDA until January 27.
This development is expected to incite controversy, as investigations by the ED have indicated CM Siddaramaiah's involvement in the scam.
However, CM Siddaramaiah has asserted that the ED's statement against him is politically motivated.
According to sources, the Lokayukta's report categorically states that no involvement of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was found in the MUDA case.
The report indicated that there were irregularities and discrepancies concerning the denotification and conversion of land, with violations attributed to the officers involved.
The report further noted that the MUDA Commissioner and the Revenue officials were implicated in the scam due to their breaches of rules and guidelines.
