The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a significant investigation into the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam, with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at the center of the allegations.
This probe comes on the heels of a recent FIR lodged against the Chief Minister by the Lokayukta police, indicating serious concerns regarding irregularities in the allotment of land.
According to sources, the ED is likely to issue a notice to CM Siddaramaiah imminently, summoning him for questioning as part of the investigation.
The agency is also closely monitoring the activities of his close associates and family members, including a cabinet minister, as they seek to unravel the complexities surrounding the MUDA scam.
Reports suggest that the ED may conduct raids on the residences and offices of Siddaramaiah’s associates throughout the state.
Investigators are also scrutinizing financial transactions and bank accounts linked to both the Chief Minister and his inner circle.
On Monday, the ED registered an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) against Siddaramaiah, equivalent to a police FIR, based on allegations that he facilitated the questionable allotment of 14 plots of land to his wife, Parvathi BM.
Additionally, the inquiry follows an FIR lodged by the Lokayukta police on 27 September, highlighting the gravity of the accusations.
In tandem with the ED’s actions, the Karnataka Lokayukta has accelerated its investigation into the MUDA case.
A team led by Mysuru Lokayukta SP TJ Udesh has already visited the disputed land on the outskirts of Mysuru, accompanied by the petitioner, Snehamayi Krishna.
Meanwhile, the decision by CM Siddaramaiah’s wife to return the 14 plots allotted to her has sparked widespread debate.
BJP MLA Calls for CM’s Resignation Over MUDA Scam
BJP MLA TS Srivatsa expressed strong disapproval of this move, emphasizing that it is insufficient given the circumstances.
“The two commissioners who colluded in the MUDA scam are roaming freely even today,” he remarked, calling for accountability.
MLA TS Srivatsa asserted, “CM Siddaramaiah first claimed that there was no scam at all. Later, he formed a commission and now there is an FIR against him. After committing the mistake, you offer to return the sale deed. The time is up. He will have to tender his resignation and I am sure he won’t be in the position until Dasara festivities.”
TJ Abraham: Returning Sites Is Not a Big Sacrifice; CM Siddaramaiah Has Lost It
TJ Abraham, another petitioner in the MUDA case, echoed similar sentiments, stating, “I had demanded the MUDA commissioner to take back the allotted sites. He had written back saying the process would initiate. They were waiting for the investigation report.”
“CM Siddaramaiah has not approached the division bench or the Supreme Court to challenge the order against him because there is nothing to be challenged. Returning sites is not a big sacrifice. The Chief Minister has lost it,” Abraham added.
As the investigation unfolds, the political landscape in Karnataka may witness significant ramifications, particularly as public and political scrutiny intensifies around Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s administration.
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