Karnataka HC to Hear Plea for CBI Probe into MUDA Scam on December 19
Bengaluru (Karnataka), December 10: The Karnataka High Court has scheduled a hearing for December 19 regarding a plea seeking the transfer of the investigation into the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The petition calls for an independent investigation by the CBI, arguing that the current probe by the Lokayukta Police is influenced by the state government.
During the hearing, senior advocate KG Raghavan urged for a CBI inquiry, emphasizing that the investigation should be free from any political influence, including from the Chief Minister. The plea was filed after the state authorities began investigating the scam, which allegedly involves the illegal allotment of prime Mysuru land to close associates of high-ranking officials.
In related developments, the Karnataka High Court recently adjourned the hearing on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s challenge against a court order upholding the Governor’s sanction to investigate him in connection with the MUDA case. This hearing will take place on January 20, 2024. Siddaramaiah had contested a ruling by the single bench of the High Court, which allowed the investigation into alleged irregularities in the allotment of 14 plots to his wife in prime Mysuru locations.
The Chief Minister had questioned the legality of the Governor’s sanction for investigation under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The case, which has also led to a money laundering probe by the Enforcement Directorate, was sparked by a Lokayukta FIR filed on September 27.
Despite the mounting allegations, Siddaramaiah has consistently denied any wrongdoing, calling the case politically motivated. He has resisted calls from the opposition BJP to resign, maintaining his position amid growing pressure.