Tue Sep 24 08:13:24 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka High Court Upholds Governor’s Decision to Investigate Chief Minister Siddaramaiah

**Bengaluru, Karnataka:** The Karnataka High Court on Monday dismissed a petition filed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah challenging the Governor’s approval for an investigation against him in a land allotment case involving his wife. Justice M. Nagaprasanna ruled that the Governor, Thaawarchand Gehlot, acted within his powers and with “abundant application of mind” in granting the permission for an investigation.

The investigation concerns the alleged irregularities in the allotment of 14 Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) sites to Siddaramaiah’s wife in a prime location of Mysuru city. The alleged illegalities took place in 2021, while the BJP was in power in the state.

The High Court upheld the Governor’s decision, stating that the facts narrated in the complaints “undoubtedly require investigation” as the benefit was not for outsiders but for family members of the Chief Minister.

Siddaramaiah had argued that the Governor’s sanction was illegal and unconstitutional. The court, however, rejected his arguments, stating that there was no fault in the Governor’s action of granting permission for investigation independently exercising his power.

The Congress government has expressed discontent with the Governor’s decision, accusing him of acting with political bias and delaying investigations against BJP leaders. However, the High Court’s verdict paves the way for a full investigation into the alleged irregularities.

Following the High Court’s ruling, the Opposition BJP has demanded Siddaramaiah’s resignation, calling the verdict a “triumph of truth.” The JD(S), another opposition party, also welcomed the decision, stating it was a victory for their campaign against the MUDA scam.

The Karnataka government has stated it will appeal the High Court’s ruling to the Division Bench of the High Court and potentially to the Supreme Court.

Read More