Significantly, the Karnataka Lokayukta Police has cleared Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his wife Parvathi Siddaramaiah in the contentious Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land allotment case. After a detailed investigation, the Lokayukta concluded that no substantial evidence was found to support the allegations of irregularities in the land allotment process.
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This verdict comes as a major relief for the Congress-led Karnataka government, which has been facing political heat from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other opposition leaders over the alleged land scam. However, despite this clearance, the opposition continues to demand a more extensive Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry.
Background of the MUDA Land Allotment Case
The controversy stems from the allocation of 14 prime plots in the Vijayanagar area of Mysore to Parvathi Siddaramaiah as compensation for 3.16 acres of land that was acquired by MUDA in Kesare village. The petition, filed by activist Snehamayi Krishna, claimed that the allotment was disproportionate and favored the Chief Minister’s family.
The complainant also alleged that the process bypassed standard legal procedures and was carried out with malafide intentions, raising concerns about corruption and preferential treatment. The case quickly gained political traction, leading to calls for an independent probe into the matter.
Lokayukta Investigation and Key Findings
Following a detailed inquiry, the Lokayukta Police found no wrongdoing in the land allotment process. The investigation report, which was submitted to the Karnataka High Court, noted:
- There was no evidence suggesting undue favoritism or procedural violations in the compensation provided to Parvathi Siddaramaiah.
- The compensation was found to be legally valid and consistent with existing MUDA policies.
- No link between the Chief Minister’s office and the land allotment decision could be established.
- Statements from key officials and documents reviewed by the Lokayukta did not indicate any financial irregularities.
Political Reactions and Opposition’s Stand
Despite the clean chit from the Lokayukta, the BJP and other opposition parties remain skeptical. Senior BJP leaders have accused the investigation of being influenced by the ruling party and have called for a more in-depth CBI probe. Former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has demanded that the case be handed over to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to examine possible money laundering angles.
On the other hand, Congress leaders have termed the allegations as politically motivated and have reiterated their stance that Siddaramaiah and his family have been falsely targeted.
Legal Perspective and Implications
With the Lokayukta’s clearance, the legal standing of the case has significantly weakened. However, legal experts argue that if fresh evidence surfaces, the case could be reopened.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka High Court has acknowledged the Lokayukta’s findings but has left room for further proceedings if any aggrieved parties bring new, credible evidence to the table.
Impact on Karnataka’s Political Landscape
The verdict is expected to have major implications for Karnataka’s political landscape. With state elections approaching, the ruling Congress government is likely to leverage the clean chit to consolidate its position. However, with the opposition continuing to push for a CBI or ED probe, the issue is unlikely to die down soon.For now, Siddaramaiah can breathe a sigh of relief as the Lokayukta has dismissed allegations against him and his family, but the political and legal battle around this case is far from over.
By – Nikita
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