BANGALORE: In a latest development, the Karnataka High Court has postponed proceedings in the MUDA scam case involving Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The court directed the trial court to halt all actions related to the case and not to act on the Governor's sanction against Siddaramaiah.

Justice Hemant Chandangoudar of the Karnataka High Court addressed the urgent writ petition filed by Siddaramaiah and scheduled the next hearing for August 29. During the hearing, Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Siddaramaiah, argued that the sanction granted by the Governor is flawed and part of a broader attempt to undermine the elected government in Karnataka for political reasons.

Previously, the Karnataka Governor had approved the prosecution of Siddaramaiah in connection with the MUDA scam, adding significant pressure on him.

Details of the MUDA Scam

The MUDA scam revolves around allegations against the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). It is claimed that less valuable land in a remote area was exchanged for prime land. The case involves the allocation of a site in upscale Mysuru city to Siddaramaiah’s wife, Parvathi. Allegedly, three acres and 16 guntas of remote land were unlawfully acquired.

Complaints about the scam were initially made by Snehamayi Krishna, who accused MUDA of fabricating documents to obtain plots worth crores. Opposition parties have highlighted claims that the land, valued at Rs 3,000 crores, originally belonged to the Dalit community.

Siddaramaiah’s Defense

Siddaramaiah has refuted the allegations, insisting that all actions were conducted legally. He has claimed that MUDA illegally developed a layout on four acres of land owned by his wife in Mysuru's Kesarur area, leading to the controversy.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has demanded Siddaramaiah's resignation, stating, "Considering all factors and legal opinions, the Governor has sanctioned Siddaramaiah’s prosecution. This is a legal process, and Siddaramaiah should cooperate with the investigation and judiciary. He should resign as Chief Minister."

In response to the ongoing situation, Siddaramaiah has affirmed that he has the backing of the entire State Cabinet. "The entire Cabinet, party high command, all MLAs, MLCs, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs are with me," he declared.

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