Former Lokayukta Justice Santosh Hegde has called for the resignation of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, following allegations of his involvement in a MUDA site allotment scam. Hegde stated that the high court's declaration for an investigation into the matter clearly shows the chief minister's implication in the scandal. He further criticized the provision requiring the sanction of public servants in such cases and called for its abolishment.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah Faces Resignation Calls Amid MUDA Site Scam Allegations
Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is facing mounting pressure to resign following allegations of his involvement in a multi-crore land scam involving the allotment of sites by the Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA).
Background
In 2012, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), then in opposition, filed a complaint with the Lokayukta against Siddaramaiah, alleging irregularities in the allotment of 53 acres of prime land in Mysore to private individuals. The Lokayukta, a state-appointed anti-corruption agency, initiated an investigation.
In 2017, the Karnataka High Court directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to investigate the case. The CBI registered a First Information Report (FIR) and began its probe.
Allegations Against Siddaramaiah
The allegations against Siddaramaiah include:
Resignation Calls
Former Lokayukta Justice Santosh Hegde has called for Siddaramaiah's immediate resignation, stating that the high court's order for an investigation is a clear indication of his involvement in the scam. Various opposition parties, including the BJP and the Janata Dal (Secular), have also demanded his resignation.
Siddaramaiah's Defense
Siddaramaiah has denied all allegations and has stated that he is ready to face any investigation. He has accused the opposition of politically motivated attacks and has asserted his innocence.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is MUDA?
MUDA is a government body responsible for the development of Mysore city in Karnataka.
2. What are the allegations against Siddaramaiah?
He is accused of influencing the allotment of MUDA sites to favor his associates and close relatives.
3. Who is investigating the case?
The CBI is investigating the case on the orders of the Karnataka High Court.
4. Why has Justice Santosh Hegde called for Siddaramaiah's resignation?
He believes that the high court's order for an investigation is a clear indication of Siddaramaiah's involvement in the scam.
5. What is Siddaramaiah's response to the allegations?
He has denied all allegations and is ready to face any investigation.
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