Bengaluru, Aug 29: The Karnataka High Court on Thursday began hearing arguments in Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s writ petition challenging Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot’s decision to grant consent for his prosecution. The case involves alleged irregularities in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA).
Court Proceedings and Arguments
The Division Bench, led by Justice M Nagaprasanna, is presiding over the case. Senior counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing CM Siddaramaiah, argued that the Governor’s consent for prosecution violated Section 17(A) of the Prevention of Corruption Act (PC Act). Singhvi stated that the consent was given without any investigation report against Siddaramaiah, making the Governor’s decision invalid. He also highlighted that neither the Governor nor one of the petitioners, Pradeep Kumar, had submitted their objections to the court.
Singhvi criticized petitioner TJ Abraham for his contradictory stance, noting that while Abraham claimed the Governor’s consent was unnecessary, he still sought it. He argued that the Governor should withdraw the consent and impose a fine on the petitioner.
Government’s Response and Legal Stand
CM Siddaramaiah expressed confidence in the judicial process, stating, “Let’s see what happens.” Minister for Power, KJ George, also voiced support for Siddaramaiah, emphasizing the trust in the court. The High Court had earlier provided temporary relief to Siddaramaiah, instructing the lower court to refrain from making any decisions until August 29.
The petitioners against Siddaramaiah plan to present the Governor’s consent letter to the lower court and seek permission to file an FIR. The High Court, which began hearing the case on August 19, will decide on the CM’s request for interim relief and the quashing of the Governor’s order, which the CM claims is unconstitutional.
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