 |
|
The Karnataka High Court has dealt a significant blow to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah by dismissing his challenge to Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot's decision to sanction his prosecution in the alleged MUDA land scam case. The court ruled that the Governor's decision was made after due consideration and upheld its validity. This judgment paves the way for the lower court to initiate legal proceedings against Siddaramaiah, including filing a First Information Report, escalating the pressure on the Chief Minister.
The BJP, which has been vocal in its criticism of the Congress government and Siddaramaiah in this case, seized on the court's verdict to renew its demand for the Chief Minister's resignation. The BJP's state unit chief, BY Vijayendra, urged Siddaramaiah to step down immediately, citing the High Court's validation of the Governor's decision. On the other hand, the Congress, for whom the verdict represents a setback, particularly with the upcoming Haryana elections, rallied behind Siddaramaiah. His deputy, DK Shivakumar, denounced the verdict as a conspiracy against their leader and pledged to fight it out in court.
Siddaramaiah, in his defense, had argued that the Governor's sanction was illegal as it was made without state approval. He further asserted that the Governor did not apply his mind to the matter and that the sanction was therefore reviewable by the court. However, the High Court rejected these arguments, suggesting that the Governor's decision could be viewed as an independent one, and that he was not obligated to rely on ministerial advice. The Chief Minister also claimed that the Governor's decision violated principles of natural justice and posed a threat to his reputation and the stability of the state government.
The alleged MUDA land scam revolves around the value of land allotted to Siddaramaiah's wife, Parvathi, in Mysuru, as compensation for land taken for infrastructure development. Critics allege that the value of the allotted land significantly exceeds that of the land taken. An activist, TJ Abraham, filed a complaint against Siddaramaiah, his wife and son, and senior MUDA officials, alleging that the allocation of 14 alternative sites in Mysuru was illegal and resulted in a loss of Rs 45 crore. Siddaramaiah countered by claiming that the land was gifted by his wife's brother in 1998. However, another activist, Snehmayi Krishna, alleged that the brother had acquired the land illegally and registered it using forged documents with the help of government officials.
This case highlights the complex interplay of politics, law, and allegations of corruption in India. The High Court's decision has significantly intensified the pressure on Siddaramaiah, potentially impacting the political landscape in Karnataka, and adding another layer to the ongoing tussle between the BJP and the Congress. The outcome of the case will be closely watched as it unfolds, with implications for both the political future of Siddaramaiah and the broader political dynamics in the state.
Source: "Governor's Action As Per Law": Big Setback For Siddaramaiah In Court