Karnataka Court Directs Lokayukta To Continue Probe In MUDA Case 'Involving CM Siddaramaiah'

The order was passed by Special Court for MPs and MLAs on Tuesday, following a petition filed by the ED challenging the closure report earlier submitted by the Lokayukta in MUDA case.

The MUDA case revolves around the alleged irregularities in land allotment by the urban body, with allegations of preferential treatment and possible misuse of office during Siddaramaiah’s earlier tenure.

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In a significant development, a Karnataka court has ordered the Lokayukta police to continue their investigation into the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) site allotment case that allegedly involves Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, his wife, and others.

The order was passed by the Special Court for MPs and MLAs on Tuesday, following a petition filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and complaintant challenging the closure report earlier submitted by the Lokayukta in the case. The ED had argued that the probe had been prematurely shut despite substantial grounds for further investigation.

Judge Santhosh Gajanan Bhat, who presided over the matter, had previously reserved the order on April 9 after hearing extensive arguments and counterarguments from both sides, as per IANS.

The Karnataka Lokayukta's 'B' report had cleared Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in an alleged corruption case, concluding there was no evidence of wrongdoing. However, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and activist-complainant Snehamaayi Krishna formally objected to the findings, demanding a more thorough investigation.

The MUDA case details 

The MUDA case revolves around the alleged irregularities in land allotment by the urban body, with allegations of preferential treatment and possible misuse of office during Siddaramaiah’s earlier tenure.

Allegations have surfaced suggesting that residential plots were allocated in breach of established norms and procedures, potentially benefiting certain individuals, including members of Siddaramaiah’s family.

The issue was brought to light after activist Snehamaayi Krishna filed a complaint, prompting the Lokayukta to initiate a formal probe.

A 'B Report'—a closure document indicating insufficient evidence to pursue prosecution—was later submitted, stating that there was not enough material to press charges against the accused.

However, this conclusion is now being challenged with both the Enforcement Directorate and the complainant asserting that key aspects of the case were either overlooked or inadequately addressed during the investigation.