Karnataka Deputy CM Shivakumar praises Siddaramaiah for appearing before Lokayukta in MUDA case

He also expressed confidence that the Congress will win all three seats in the upcoming by-elections.

"He (Siddaramiah) has respected the law. He could have taken time since there was an election, but still, he has respected the law. That is the way of functioning," Shivakumar added. The Deputy CM further stated, "Congress is going to win all the three seats in Karnataka."

Earlier in the day, CM Siddaramaiah appeared before the Lokayukta Police in connection with the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam.

After questioning, he said, "Lokayukta is an independent agency. Like CBI, Lokayukta is also an independent agency. The governor said that the MUDA case should also be investigated by the Lokayukta." He further clarified, "My wife has returned those sites, saying that there are accusations against me."

Meanwhile, Karnataka State Minister MB Patil confirmed that CM Siddaramaiah fully cooperated with the Lokayukta Police and dismissed BJP protests as mere "drama." Speaking to ANI, he said, "The CM has appeared in front of the Lokayukta Police. He has suitably answered whatever they inquired." Criticizing BJP protests, he added, "BJP can protest against anyone... It's all drama."

Siddaramaiah's Political Secretary, Naseer Ahmed, accused the BJP-led central government of harassing the Chief Minister, insisting, "There is no charge against the CM. He is clear... He has a very clear conscience that he has not done anything wrong. He is a man with a clean image." Ahmed further claimed, "These are all fake cases filed by the BJP... The more they harass him, the more sympathy he will gain from the people."

The Lokayukta investigation into the MUDA scam began after a court ordered an FIR to be filed on September 27, alleging the illegal allotment of 14 sites, worth Rs 56 crore, to Siddaramaiah's wife, Parvathi. Additionally, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a money laundering investigation, naming Siddaramaiah, his wife, and others involved in the case.

Despite the allegations, Siddaramaiah denies any wrongdoing and asserts that the case is politically motivated. He has dismissed calls for his resignation despite continued pressure from the BJP.

On Tuesday, the Karnataka High Court issued notices regarding the MUDA land allotment case and directed the Lokayukta Police to submit a progress report by November 25. (ANI)