Wed Sep 25 08:55:29 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Faces Heat Over Land Scam, Congress High Command Under Pressure

**Bengaluru:** Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is facing mounting pressure over his alleged involvement in the “MUDA land allotment scam” involving his wife, even as he vehemently denies any wrongdoing and claims it’s a politically motivated attack by the BJP.

The Karnataka High Court, in a significant ruling, upheld the Governor’s order for an investigation into the scandal, raising “a needle of suspicion” regarding Siddaramaiah’s alleged role. While the Chief Minister has called the allegations a “conspiracy” and insists on his innocence, the Congress high command is grappling with the fallout, particularly with crucial elections in Haryana, Maharashtra, and Jharkhand looming.

The ruling comes as a major blow to the Congress, which had recently returned to power in Karnataka. The High Court’s observation that the “benefits of such magnitude would not have flown” if Siddaramaiah wasn’t in power has cast a shadow over his leadership, prompting calls for his resignation.

While Siddaramaiah enjoys the unwavering support of Rahul Gandhi, the Congress high command, including Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, is reportedly leaning towards Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who has been a strong contender for the top post.

The allegations have sparked a debate within the Congress, with some arguing that Siddaramaiah’s defiance of the court order could negatively impact the party’s chances in the upcoming elections. The high command is now closely watching the developments, seeking legal advice from AICC legal cell head Abhishek Manu Singhvi on the strength of Siddaramaiah’s case.

The Chief Minister is expected to file a review petition, seeking more time, but the High Court’s ruling has undeniably put him in a tight spot. The future of his political career hangs in the balance, with the Congress high command facing a delicate balancing act between supporting its beleaguered Chief Minister and protecting its electoral prospects.

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