Karnataka Gives Nod to Probe Against Ex-MUDA Chief Over Land Allotment Scandal

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The Karnataka government has granted permission for the Lokayukta Police to investigate former Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) chairman HV Rajeev in connection with the high-profile land allotment case involving Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The state cabinet cleared the proposal after nearly seven months of deliberation, paving the way for the Lokayukta to proceed with the investigation. The case has sparked intense political debate, with allegations of land scams and favoritism levelled against the Chief Minister. The controversy surrounds a 3.16-acre plot gifted to Siddaramaiah's wife BM Parvathi in 2010, which was illegally developed by MUDA between 2011-13. Parvathi was eventually given 14 plots as compensation in 2022, sparking accusations that the compensatory land was far more valuable than the original plot. Meanwhile, a critical stage has been reached in the Lokayukta's investigation, with a Special Court in Bengaluru set to deliver its verdict on January 22. The court has been hearing a petition challenging the 'B report' filed by the Lokayukta investigation officer against Siddaramaiah and three others. The proceedings have also seen the production of former MUDA commissioner GT Dinesh Kumar, who is currently in judicial custody in connection with the case. The sanction granted by the state cabinet is seen as a significant development in the case, increasing the likelihood of a charge sheet being filed against HV Rajeev. 'The government has granted permission after due legal scrutiny. This will enable the Lokayukta police to move forward as per law,' a senior official said. The investigation is expected to shed more light on the allegations surrounding the land allotment scandal and the role of key players involved.