- galaxy
- 24 Sep 2024 04:50 AM
- KarnatakaHighCourt, Siddaramaiah, MUDAlandScam, IndianPolitics
The Karnataka High Court has delivered a significant verdict by dismissing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's challenge against Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot's decision to sanction his prosecution in the alleged MUDA land scam. A bench led by Justice M Nagaprasanna stated that the Governor had adequately considered the matter, affirming that the order does not reflect a lack of due diligence. The court emphasized that the facts surrounding the case warrant investigation, leading to the dismissal of Siddaramaiah's petition.
Following the ruling, the lower court is now empowered to initiate legal proceedings against the Chief Minister, including filing a first information report (FIR), which increases pressure on him amid rising political tensions. The High Court had previously instructed the trial court to refrain from any actions until its verdict, which has now been overturned.
In reaction to the ruling, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has ramped up its calls for Siddaramaiah's resignation, labeling the Congress government as corrupt. Meanwhile, the Congress party has rallied in support of the Chief Minister, alleging that the verdict is part of a larger conspiracy against their leaders. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar voiced confidence that they would achieve justice.
Siddaramaiah has maintained that the Governor's sanction for prosecution is illegal, arguing that it lacks state approval and undermines the people's mandate. He insists that he has never misused his political power throughout his extensive career. The MUDA land scam centers on the controversial allotment of land to Siddaramaiah's wife in Mysuru, with critics alleging that the value of the land far exceeds its legitimate worth, resulting in significant financial losses.