Karnataka HC Set to Rule on CBI Inquiry into MUDA Scam Today
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Synopsis
The Karnataka High Court is poised to announce its ruling on a petition that calls for a CBI inquiry into the MUDA scam, where Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is the primary accused. Activist Snehamayi Krishna has raised concerns about the integrity of the ongoing Lokayukta investigation.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka High Court to rule on MUDA case.
- CM Siddaramaiah is a key accused.
- Petitioner Snehamayi Krishna doubts Lokayukta's investigation.
- ED's findings have sparked controversy.
- Call for CBI inquiry into allegations.
Bengaluru, Jan 15 (NationPress) The Karnataka High Court's Dharwad Bench is expected to deliver its judgment today regarding the petition that seeks a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scandal. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stands as the primary suspect in this matter, with his wife Parvathi and brother-in-law Mallikarjuna Swamy listed as secondary and tertiary accused, respectively.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is currently under investigation by both the Lokayukta and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for allegedly securing 14 plots for his family in violation of existing regulations.
Activist Snehamayi Krishna initiated the petition, voicing concerns over the integrity of the Lokayukta's investigation into this scandal.
The bench led by Justice M. Nagaprasanna is anticipated to announce its verdict in the first session. On Wednesday, Snehamayi Krishna expressed optimism that the court will assign the MUDA case to the CBI.
A letter from the ED to the Karnataka Lokayukta revealing its findings on the MUDA issue had previously sparked controversy. CM Siddaramaiah argued that this was an attempt to sway the court.
Siddaramaiah has filed a motion to dismiss the proceedings against him regarding the MUDA case. In light of the land grab allegations, his family has returned the plots to MUDA.
The Chief Minister faces charges under Sections 120B, 166, 403, 406, 420, 426, 465, 468, 340, and 351 of the IPC, along with Sections 9 and 13 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, Sections 3, 53, and 54 of the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, and Sections 3 and 4 of the Karnataka Land Grabbing Prohibition Act.
Petitioner Snehamayi Krishna claimed he was approached with substantial bribes to retract his demand for a CBI investigation into the MUDA case.
He also lodged a complaint with the Karnataka Lokayukta, urging the investigating officer to pursue the matter further. He supplied CCTV footage showing an individual named Harsha, claiming to be the personal assistant of CM Siddaramaiah’s wife, approaching his family.
In his petition, Krishna called for a CBI investigation against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, arguing that he lacks confidence in the Lokayukta's ability to conduct a transparent inquiry into the MUDA scandal.
Furthermore, he expressed concerns that the Lokayukta operates under the state government and that its officers are appointed by the government, leading him to doubt the potential for an unbiased investigation.
