What Did the Ex-HC Judge Uncover About the MUDA Scam?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, the retired Karnataka High Court judge P.N. Desai has presented a six-volume report on the MUDA scam to the Siddaramaiah administration. The implications of this report could reshape political dynamics in Karnataka, especially with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah named as a key accused. Stay tuned for unfolding details!
Key Takeaways
- P.N. Desai has submitted a critical report on the MUDA scam.
- Chief Minister Siddaramaiah faces serious allegations.
- The investigation includes both Karnataka Lokayukta and ED.
- Public protests have intensified demanding accountability.
- The Supreme Court's recent ruling has implications for ongoing investigations.
Bengaluru, July 31 (NationPress) The chairman of the judicial commission looking into the MUDA scam, retired Karnataka High Court judge P.N. Desai, delivered a comprehensive six-volume report to the Siddaramaiah administration on Thursday.
The report was officially received by Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, as confirmed by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).
Details regarding the findings of the report have yet to be disclosed.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stands as the principal accused, with his wife B.M. Parvathi listed as the second accused.
The Karnataka Lokayukta has already filed an initial report with the court regarding this matter, while the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) continues its investigation. The petitioner in this case, Snehamayi Krishna, has requested a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) through a petition submitted to the High Court.
The Siddaramaiah government had established the judicial commission just ahead of the monsoon session in July 2024, tasking it to present its findings within six months. However, the commission exceeded this timeframe in delivering its report.
The MUDA scam primarily involves allegations surrounding the acquisition, de-notification, gifting, encroachment, and allocation of sites associated with a 3.16-acre plot owned by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s wife, B.M. Parvathi.
The BJP has claimed that fraudulent allotments have resulted in a loss of approximately Rs 4,000 crore to the state.
Additionally, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah faces accusations of abusing his authority to fabricate documents concerning the 3.17-acre land near Mysuru and securing 14 sites from MUDA in his wife's name.
Siddaramaiah continues to assert that the allotments were made during the tenure of the BJP government, which has since labeled it a "scam".
Initially, the Chief Minister claimed his family never requested sites in prime areas, stating, "We are prepared to return them. The government should instead allocate Rs 62 crore to him." However, his wife later returned the 14 sites to MUDA.
The BJP and JD(S) initiated a week-long padyatra (foot march) from Bengaluru to CM Siddaramaiah's hometown, Mysuru, demanding his resignation on August 4, 2024.
Recently, the Supreme Court dismissed the Special Leave Petition (SLP) filed by the ED, which sought to challenge the Karnataka High Court's ruling that quashed the ED notice directed at the Karnataka CM's wife and Minister Byrathi Suresh.
The Chief Justice of India expressed disapproval regarding the ED's actions during the appeal. Chief Justice B.R. Gavai remarked on his past experiences with similar issues in Maharashtra. "Please do not compel us to make comments. Otherwise, we may have to issue severe criticisms of the ED. Let political disagreements remain within the electorate. Why are you allowing yourself to be manipulated for this?" the bench questioned.
The bench further mentioned, "We do not find any faults in the reasoning put forth by the single judge. Given the unique circumstances of this case, we dismiss the petition. We should express our gratitude to the ASG for helping us avoid making harsh remarks."
Expressing approval of the Supreme Court's decision to uphold the Karnataka High Court's ruling and annul the ED notice concerning the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) case, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah demanded a public apology from the BJP and JD(S) leaders.
Point of View
The unfolding MUDA scam case in Karnataka exemplifies the need for accountability in governance. The allegations against prominent political figures underscore the ongoing challenges of corruption in Indian politics. It is crucial that investigations are conducted impartially to ensure justice and maintain public trust in democratic institutions.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MUDA scam?
The MUDA scam involves allegations of fraudulent land allotments in Karnataka, with significant losses claimed to the state government.
Who is implicated in the MUDA scam?
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his wife B.M. Parvathi are the main accused, alongside other political figures.
What actions have been taken regarding the MUDA scam?
A judicial commission led by retired judge P.N. Desai was established to investigate, and a report has been submitted to the government.
What is the political reaction to the MUDA scam?
The BJP and JD(S) have demanded Siddaramaiah's resignation and have organized protests in response to the allegations.
What is the status of the ED investigation?
The ED is actively investigating the matter, but the Supreme Court recently dismissed its notice against certain individuals.
