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The political landscape in Karnataka has taken a dramatic turn with a Special Court ordering a Lokayukta investigation into Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, implicating him in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land allotment controversy. This development follows the High Court's confirmation of Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot's sanction for the inquiry. The allegations stem from the alleged improper allocation of 14 plots to Siddaramaiah's wife, Parvathi, by MUDA, which has been described by opposition parties as a scam worth an estimated ₹3,000 crore.
Siddaramaiah has adamantly refuted all allegations, claiming that his wife's acquisition of land was legitimate and that the development authority illegally developed land owned by her in Mysuru's Kesarur area. However, the accusations, which also implicate Siddaramaiah's brother-in-law, Malikarjuna Swamy Devaraj, have stirred significant controversy and garnered attention from various political factions.
In response to the unfolding investigation, Siddaramaiah has accused the BJP and JD(S) of exploiting the Raj Bhavan to launch false accusations with the intention of destabilizing his government. He has further criticized the BJP's alleged 'revenge politics', expressing confidence in the judicial system while simultaneously stating his intention to consult legal experts regarding the validity of the investigation. Despite the Chief Minister's staunch denial, the Lokayukta probe will undoubtedly cast a long shadow over his leadership, particularly as the allegations center on potential corruption and abuse of power.
This case has exposed the deep-rooted corruption allegations plaguing Karnataka's political landscape, highlighting the complex interplay between power, land ownership, and political maneuvering. The unfolding investigation promises to be a lengthy and contentious process, with its potential to significantly influence the political dynamics of the state leading up to the upcoming elections.