Karnataka Lokayukta Requests Extension for MUDA Scam Report

Synopsis

The Karnataka Lokayukta is extending its investigation into the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam, where Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is implicated. An extension has been sought to finalize the report, with a hearing set for February 24.

Key Takeaways

Karnataka Lokayukta is investigating MUDA scam.
CM Siddaramaiah is named as an accused.
Final report comprises 550 pages across five volumes.
No political influence found in site allocations.
Karnataka High Court rejected a CBI probe petition.

Bengaluru, Feb 17 (NationPress) The Karnataka Lokayukta, which is investigating the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land scam involving Chief Minister Siddaramaiah as one of the accused, has requested additional time from the court to present the final report.

In light of this request, Judge Santhosh Gajanan Bhat of the Special Court for MLAs/MPs in Bengaluru has scheduled the hearing for February 24.

The prosecution's counsel indicated that Lokayukta ADGP A. Subramanyeshwara Rao is currently reviewing the report and has asked for more time due to technical issues.

Mysuru Lokayukta SP T.J. Udesh had previously submitted the MUDA scam report to Lokayukta ADGP Subramanyeshwara Rao on February 13, following directions from the High Court bench led by Justice M. Nagaprasanna.

Sources reveal that the final report on the MUDA scam spans 550 pages across five volumes. The legal cell of the Lokayukta will scrutinize the report to determine whether to file a charge sheet or a closure report.

Investigations have reportedly found no political influence in the allocation of 14 sites by MUDA to CM Siddaramaiah's family.

A thorough investigation has been conducted regarding the allocation of these sites and the ownership of land belonging to the fourth accused, J. Devaraju.

When asked if he expects a clean chit in the MUDA scam, CM Siddaramaiah stated on Monday: “I have no information regarding this.”

The Karnataka High Court had dismissed a petition on February 6 seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged MUDA scam.

This outcome is a significant boost for CM Siddaramaiah, who is identified as accused number one in this case, just before the Budget session.

The verdict comes amidst opposition from the BJP, who claimed his tenure would conclude by November, providing him with essential relief and fortifying his position within the party.

The decision also empowers CM Siddaramaiah to confront the opposition confidently during the upcoming Budget session set for the first week of March.

The Congress-led administration had been accused of shortening the session duration to evade discussions on the MUDA scam.