Fri Sep 27 16:56:27 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Named in FIR Over Alleged MUDA Scam

**Mysuru, Karnataka:** In a major development, the Lokayukta police have filed an FIR against Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in connection with an alleged scam in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). The FIR, filed on the orders of a special court, names Siddaramaiah as the primary accused, while his wife Parvathi and Bamaida Mallikarjunaswamy are listed as secondary accused.

The case stems from allegations of irregularities and misuse of authority by Siddaramaiah during his previous term as CM, with specific concerns about the allotment of 14 sites to his wife by MUDA.

Following a court mandate, the Lokayukta police are investigating Siddaramaiah under provisions related to corruption, benami properties, and land grabbing. The Superintendent of Police has been instructed to submit a report within three months.

The controversy involves a “50:50” scheme implemented by MUDA in 2020, which aimed to provide alternative sites to landowners whose properties were acquired for development. While the scheme was scrapped by Siddaramaiah in 2023, allegations suggest that his wife received 14 premium sites in violation of norms.

Siddaramaiah has vehemently denied all allegations, claiming the land transfer was done legally and emphasizing the BJP government was in power when his wife received the plots. He has also stated his intention to remain as CM despite mounting pressure.

The Opposition BJP and activists allege that Siddaramaiah and his wife benefitted from an illegal land deal, pegging the estimated irregularities at ₹4,000 crore. The matter has sparked significant political tension in Karnataka.

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