Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy Questions Lokayukta Probe
Concerns Over Investigation into Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah
In Channapatna, Karnataka, Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy expressed doubts about the Lokayukta Police’s investigation into Chief Minister Siddaramaiah regarding the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam. Kumaraswamy criticized the investigation, questioning the authority of a superintendent-level officer to probe the Chief Minister. He remarked, “What inquiry have they done? An SP-level officer inquiring about the CM? It’s a drama which happened today. SP might have written whatever they wanted.”
Siddaramaiah’s Response
Earlier, Siddaramaiah appeared before the Lokayukta Police in Mysuru. After the questioning, he stated, “The Lokayukta is an independent agency, like the CBI. The governor has recommended that the MUDA case be investigated by the Lokayukta.” He added, “I have answered all the questions posed by the Lokayukta. My responses have been recorded, and the Lokayukta will continue its investigation.” Siddaramaiah clarified that his wife has returned the sites due to the accusations against him.
Details of the MUDA Scam
The Lokayukta began its inquiry into the MUDA scam after a court directive on September 27 to file an FIR. The case involves the alleged illegal allocation of 14 sites, valued at Rs 56 crore, to Siddaramaiah’s wife, Parvathi. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also started a money laundering investigation, implicating Siddaramaiah, his wife, and others involved. Despite the allegations, Siddaramaiah has denied any wrongdoing, calling the case politically motivated and refusing to resign amid pressure from the BJP.
Legal Proceedings
On Tuesday, the Karnataka High Court issued notices regarding the MUDA land allotment investigation, instructing the Lokayukta Police to submit a progress report by November 25.
Doubts Revealed
Union Minister -: A Union Minister is a member of the government of India who is in charge of a specific department or ministry. They help make important decisions for the country.
HD Kumaraswamy -: HD Kumaraswamy is an Indian politician who has served as the Chief Minister of Karnataka, a state in India. He is a member of the Janata Dal (Secular) party.
Lokayukta -: Lokayukta is an anti-corruption authority in Indian states. It investigates complaints against public officials and politicians to ensure they are not involved in corruption.
Karnataka CM -: Karnataka CM refers to the Chief Minister of Karnataka, who is the head of the government in the Indian state of Karnataka. The current CM mentioned here is Siddaramaiah.
MUDA Scam -: MUDA Scam refers to an alleged illegal activity involving the Mysuru Urban Development Authority, where there are claims of improper allocation of land or sites.
Siddaramaiah -: Siddaramaiah is an Indian politician and the current Chief Minister of Karnataka. He is a member of the Indian National Congress party.
Superintendent-level officer -: A superintendent-level officer is a senior police officer who is responsible for maintaining law and order in a district or area. They have significant authority but may not be the highest-ranking officer in an investigation.
Enforcement Directorate -: The Enforcement Directorate is a government agency in India that investigates financial crimes and money laundering. They ensure that people follow financial laws.
