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The ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) has taken a significant turn with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah scheduled to appear before the Lokayukta police on November 6th. This summons stems from a complaint filed by activist Snehamayi Krishna, alleging irregularities in the allotment of compensatory sites by MUDA to the Chief Minister's wife, Parvathi, under the contentious 50:50 ratio scheme.
The investigation centers around the allegation that 14 compensatory sites, totaling 38,284 sq. ft., were allotted to Parvathi in exchange for 3 acres and 16 guntas of land gifted to her by her brother, Mallikarjunaswamy, which was subsequently used by MUDA for a layout development project. The complainant has not only challenged the legality of Parvathi's ownership of the 3 acres and 16 guntas of land but also questioned the transparency of the compensatory site allotment process.
The Lokayukta police have already questioned Parvathi, Mallikarjunaswamy, and Devaraju, who sold the land in Kesare to Mallikarjunaswamy. While Siddaramaiah maintains that the compensatory sites were allotted in lieu of the land used by MUDA, the investigation is focused on determining whether the allotment process adhered to legal and ethical guidelines. The case has garnered considerable public attention, raising concerns about potential corruption within the MUDA and the government's commitment to transparency and accountability.
The Lokayukta police's decision to summon the Chief Minister signals a crucial development in the investigation, marking a shift from scrutinizing individuals closer to Siddaramaiah to directly questioning the Chief Minister himself. This move underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the Lokayukta's determination to uncover the truth. The outcome of this investigation could have significant repercussions for the ruling party in Karnataka, particularly if any evidence of irregularities emerges.
Snehamayi Krishna, the complainant in the case, has welcomed the Lokayukta police's decision to issue a summons to the Chief Minister, expressing his satisfaction that Siddaramaiah will be questioned like any other accused. He has, however, expressed his lack of faith in the Lokayukta police's ability to conduct a fair and impartial investigation, given its affiliation with the State Government. He has also appealed for a CBI investigation into the alleged MUDA scam.
This case has once again brought the spotlight to the issue of corruption and transparency in government land allotments in Karnataka. The investigation's outcome will be keenly watched by the public, the political parties, and the media, as it holds the potential to significantly impact the political landscape in the state.
Source: Karnataka Chief Minister to appear before Lokayukta police on November 6