Karnataka CM Confident of Relief from Court Amid MUDA ‘Scam’ Allegations

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday expressed confidence in receiving relief from the High Court amid allegations related to the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) ‘scam.’ The CM revealed that a writ petition has been filed challenging Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot’s sanction for his prosecution in the case. Siddaramaiah stated that he is confident the Court would grant him relief, maintaining that he has done nothing wrong.

“I have sought an injunction against the prosecution as interim relief through the writ petition. Eminent lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi will represent me in court. My conscience is clear; I have done nothing wrong. I have served as a minister for 40 years without a blemish on my record. My political life is an open book, and the people of Karnataka know that I am innocent. I am fully confident that the Court will grant me relief,” Siddaramaiah asserted.

Responding to protests by the BJP demanding his resignation, Siddaramaiah accused the BJP, JD(S), and the central government of conspiring against him using the Raj Bhavan. “This is a politically motivated attempt to tarnish my image. The BJP is protesting with malicious intent, but we will fight this both legally and politically. I have faced many political challenges, and I will face this one with renewed determination,” he said.

Siddaramaiah further criticized the BJP for trying to end his political career, claiming that their actions stem from frustration over the successful implementation of welfare schemes in the state. “The opposition is troubled because I stand for the poor. The successful rollout of guarantee schemes is causing them concern,” he remarked.

Earlier in the day, Siddaramaiah criticized Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka for drawing parallels between his situation and former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa’s resignation in 2011. Siddaramaiah pointed out that Yediyurappa stepped down following an investigation report on illegal mining, not merely due to the Governor’s sanction for prosecution, and accused Ashoka of “demonstrating ignorance.”

The controversy stems from a complaint filed by social activist Snehamayi Krishna against Siddaramaiah and nine others, alleging that they forged documents to claim compensation from MUDA. In response, CM Siddaramaiah moved the High Court, seeking the cancellation of the Governor’s sanction for prosecution.