The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a money laundering case against Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and several others in connection with the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land scam. This case follows an investigation initiated by the state Lokayukta.
Background of the Case
The ED took action after reviewing an FIR (First Information Report) filed by the Lokayukta police on September 27, 2024. The case is centered around allegations involving the Chief Minister, his family members, and land transactions. The FIR names Siddaramaiah, his wife BM Parvathi, his brother-in-law Mallikarjuna Swamy, and another individual named Devaraju. Devaraju had sold land to Swamy, which was later transferred to Parvathi as a gift. The Lokayukta police have launched this investigation based on the direction of a special court in Bengaluru.
Court’s Involvement
Last week, a special court ordered the Lokayukta police to investigate the allegations against Siddaramaiah. This decision was made after the Karnataka High Court upheld the approval from Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot to probe the Chief Minister. The accusations relate to irregularities in the allotment of 14 plots of land by the MUDA, allegedly granted to Siddaramaiah’s wife.
ED Investigation
The ED has officially filed an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR), equivalent to an FIR, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). This gives the agency authority to summon those involved for questioning. Additionally, the ED may seize assets belonging to the accused during the investigation.
Siddaramaiah’s Response
In response to the case, the 76-year-old Chief Minister expressed that he is being unfairly targeted for political reasons. He stated that the opposition is “scared” of his influence and success. Despite the investigation, Siddaramaiah made it clear that he will not step down from his position. He firmly denies the allegations and is prepared to fight the case in court.
Allegations in the MUDA Land Scam
The primary accusation involves the allocation of valuable compensatory sites in Mysuru to Siddaramaiah’s wife, BM Parvathi. These sites were allegedly granted in exchange for land acquired by MUDA. Critics argue that the exchange favored the Chief Minister’s family, raising concerns of corruption.
Siddaramaiah continues to maintain his innocence, claiming that the allegations are politically motivated, and he is confident of proving his case through legal means.
