Mon Sep 30 15:37:33 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Named in Lokayukta Case Over Land Deal
**Bengaluru:** Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has been named as the first accused in a corruption case filed by the Lokayukta police concerning a land deal with the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). The case was registered in Mysuru based on a complaint alleging irregularities in the exchange of land belonging to Siddaramaiah’s wife, B.M. Parvathi.
The complaint, filed by Bengaluru resident S.P. Pradeep Kumar and Mysuru resident Snehamayi Krishna, alleges that 3.36 acres of land owned by Parvathi in Mysuru was acquired by MUDA and subsequently developed into plots, with 14 plots valued at ₹56 crores being allotted to her in return.
The Lokayukta court in Bengaluru had earlier directed the police to investigate the allegations against the Chief Minister and submit a report by December 24th. The court also ordered the registration of the case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including those related to criminal conspiracy, forgery, breach of trust, and bribery.
Siddaramaiah has denied the allegations, claiming the land was acquired by MUDA in a lawful manner and that the plots were allotted as compensation for the land lost. He termed the case a political vendetta and stated that this was not the first time he has been targeted by political rivals.
Following the registration of the case, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has intensified its protests in Karnataka demanding the Chief Minister’s resignation.
First Piper 