Wed Sep 25 07:55:12 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka High Court Allows Probe into Land Allotment to CM’s Wife, BJP Calls for Resignation

**Bengaluru, India** – The Karnataka High Court has ruled in favor of three RTI activists, allowing them to seek an investigation into a land allotment made by the Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) to the wife of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. This decision comes as a setback for the CM, who faces allegations of impropriety regarding the 2021 land transaction.

The court’s order allows the activists to approach the Karnataka Lokayukta police to probe the grant of 14 housing sites to Siddaramaiah’s wife. While the CM has stated he will explore further legal options, the Congress party has vowed to stand by him and fight the allegations legally, viewing them as a “conspiracy” by the BJP to target opposition leaders.

Siddaramaiah faces three specific allegations:

* **Land Acquisition and Gift:** His wife received 14 housing sites as compensation for a 3.16-acre plot gifted to her by her brother in 2010, which MUDA allegedly acquired illegally.
* **50:50 Scheme:** The land allotment was facilitated under MUDA’s 50:50 scheme, which was allegedly tailored by Siddaramaiah during his previous tenure as CM.
* **Value Discrepancy:** Activists allege the state lost Rs. 55.8 crore in the transaction, as the market value of the housing sites given to Siddaramaiah’s wife significantly exceeds the value of the plot exchanged.

The BJP has been vocal in its calls for Siddaramaiah’s resignation, organizing protests and demanding his removal. The JD(S) has also joined the chorus, urging the CM to consider his “ethics and conscience.” However, the Congress has stood firmly behind Siddaramaiah, citing his legal battle and the alleged political motives behind the allegations.

This case has brought to the forefront the narrative of political rivalry and the perceived use of agencies and institutions to settle scores. The outcome of the investigation, which is yet to begin, will have significant implications for both the future of the CM and the political landscape of Karnataka.

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