Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has launched a scathing attack on Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, accusing him of being a "puppet" of the central government. This comes after the Governor approved a probe into allegations against Siddaramaiah in connection with a controversial land allotment case.
Governor Gehlot’s decision allows investigative agencies to delve into allegations involving Siddaramaiah and the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). The case, now dubbed the "MUDA scam," is seen as a significant test for the Congress-led government in Karnataka, which has been in power for just 15 months.
BJP Demands Resignation
Following the Governor's announcement, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been vocal in its demand for Siddaramaiah to step down from his position as Chief Minister. The BJP has framed the probe as necessary for ensuring transparency and has suggested that the alleged scam involves a substantial sum, estimated between Rs 4,000 crore and ₹5,000 crore.
Siddaramaiah's Response
Siddaramaiah has responded defiantly, refusing to consider resignation and instead questioning the Governor's impartiality. He argued that it is the Governor who should resign for acting under the influence of the central government. "Tell me, what is the offence that I have committed?" Siddaramaiah challenged during a press interaction.
Allegations in the "MUDA Scam"
The controversy centers around the alleged allotment of compensatory sites to Siddaramaiah's wife, Parvathi, in a prime area of Mysuru. The value of the allotted land was reportedly much higher than that of the land previously acquired from her by MUDA, raising questions of impropriety.
Shivakumar condemns Governor’s action
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has condemned the Governor’s action as "unconstitutional" and "undemocratic," asserting that the entire Congress party stands firmly behind Siddaramaiah. Shivakumar also emphasized that the INDIA bloc, a coalition of opposition parties, is united in supporting the Chief Minister against what they see as false allegations.
Legal and Political Battle Ahead
Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have indicated that they will challenge the Governor’s decision in court. They argue that the Governor's actions are politically motivated and lack legal justification, vowing to fight the case both legally and politically.
Protests Erupt in Bengaluru: The controversy has sparked protests in Bengaluru, where Congress workers and members of the Karnataka Pradesh Kurubara Sangha rallied against Governor Gehlot. Demonstrators called for his removal, burning effigies and displaying placards that read, "Remove Governor, Save State."
Governor's Justification
Governor Gehlot has defended his decision, stating that it was necessary to ensure a neutral, objective, and non-partisan investigation. He also dismissed as "irrational" the state government’s advice to withdraw the show cause notice issued to Siddaramaiah and to reject the application for prosecution sanction.
Political Fallout
The situation has quickly escalated into a major political crisis in Karnataka, with the BJP capitalizing on the issue to target the Congress government. The outcome of the investigation, and the legal challenges that follow, could have significant implications for Siddaramaiah's political future and the stability of the Congress administration in the state.
Next Steps
As the legal battle looms, all eyes are on the Karnataka High Court, where the Chief Minister and his legal team are expected to challenge the Governor's decision. The case is likely to be a focal point in Karnataka politics in the coming weeks, with both sides gearing up for a protracted fight.
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