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Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Wednesday raised concerns about the credibility of the Lokayukta Police's investigation into Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah regarding the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam.
Kumaraswamy criticized the probe, questioning the authority of a superintendent-level officer to investigate the Chief Minister, saying, "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." Earlier in the day, Siddaramaiah appeared before the Lokayukta Police in Mysuru and, after the questioning, emphasized, "The Lokayukta is an independent agency, like the CBI. The governor has recommended that the MUDA case be investigated by the Lokayukta." Siddaramaiah further said, "I have answered all the questions posed by the Lokayukta. My responses have been recorded, and the Lokayukta will continue its investigation." He clarified, "My wife has returned the sites, given that accusations have been levelled against me." The Lokayukta launched its inquiry into the MUDA scam following a court directive on September 27 to file an FIR. The case centers on the alleged illegal allocation of 14 sites, valued at Rs 56 crore, to Siddaramaiah's wife, Parvathi. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also initiated a money laundering investigation, implicating Siddaramaiah, his wife, and others connected to the transactions. Despite mounting allegations, Siddaramaiah has denied any wrongdoing, calling the case politically motivated. He has refused to resign despite ongoing pressure from the BJP. On Tuesday, the Karnataka High Court issued notices concerning the MUDA land allotment investigation, directing the Lokayukta Police to submit a progress report by November 25. (ANI)
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