Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah firmly said he will not resign on Thursday, asserting his innocence in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam case. His comments came in response to demands from the BJP and JD(S) following a Special Court’s directive for an investigation into the alleged irregularities.
“I have not committed any mistake, and there is no necessity for me to resign,” Siddaramaiah stated during a press briefing at the Vidhana Soudha. He pointed out that several BJP leaders are currently out on bail, questioning whether they would feel compelled to resign as well.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, also the President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), reiterated Siddaramaiah’s stance, declaring, “He will not tender his resignation. This is a conspiracy by the BJP and JD(S) against the success of our guarantee schemes.”
Also Read: Study Reveals Health Risks of Pesticide Use Among Farmers
The BJP has ramped up its protests, demanding Siddaramaiah’s resignation, with party workers detained while attempting to lay siege to the Vidhana Soudha.
In light of the Special Court’s order for an investigation, Siddaramaiah convened a meeting with key legal advisors, including Home Minister G. Parameshwara and Law Minister H.K. Patil, to discuss the next steps. A cabinet meeting is also scheduled to address the issue and potentially explore appealing to President against what they describe as biased actions by Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot.
The Special Court instructed the Lokayukta to conduct a thorough investigation and submit a report within three months, prompting the authorities to file a formal FIR against Siddaramaiah.