Karnataka CM Challenges Governor’s Decision to Prosecute Him in MUDA Scam; Congress Seeks Presidential Intervention

On Monday, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah challenged Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot’s decision to allow his prosecution in the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land scam case by filing a writ petition with the High Court. Siddaramaiah is seeking to have the prosecution sanction overturned. Justice Hemant Chandangoudar’s single-judge bench is scheduled to hear the petition at 2:30 pm today.

In response, Congress leader Ramesh Babu has urged President Droupadi Murmu to intervene and withdraw the prosecution sanction against Siddaramaiah. In his letter, Babu expressed deep concern over what he described as a politically motivated act by Governor Gehlot, asserting that it threatens the core of democratic principles and constitutional values. He accused the Governor of taking a “political vendetta” approach by granting permission for prosecution, which he believes is influenced by the central government’s political interests. Babu alleged that the BJP and its allies, including the JD(S), are misusing the Governor’s office to undermine the elected Karnataka government.

Babu also emphasized his belief in democratic values and urged President Murmu to address the matter urgently to prevent further erosion of democratic norms.

In the meantime, Karnataka Congress workers have protested the Governor’s decision to permit the prosecution of CM Siddaramaiah in connection with the alleged MUDA scam. The controversy erupted after social activist Snehamayi Krishna accused Siddaramaiah and nine others of document forgery to claim compensation from MUDA.