Davangere: In a dramatic turn of events, former minister M P Renukacharya has alleged that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s inner circle leaked documents pertaining to the Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) site allotment scam to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Renukacharya claimed that these documents were handed over to BJP state president B Y Vijayendra by Congress leaders themselves, signalling internal strife within the ruling party.
Congress Infighting and MUDA Scam Allegations
Renukacharya’s accusations come in the wake of ongoing political turmoil surrounding the Valmiki Scheduled Tribe (ST) Development Corporation scam. He alleged that infighting within the Congress has reached a boiling point, with several factions eyeing the Chief Minister’s seat. “The Congress leaders themselves gave the MUDA documents to BJP when the Valmiki ST Development Corporation scam came to light,” he said.
Renukacharya added that the Special Court for Elected Representatives had ordered the Mysore Lokayukta police to investigate Siddaramaiah’s alleged involvement in the MUDA site allotment scandal. The court’s order followed accusations that Siddaramaiah, as the then Chief Minister, had a role in the allocation of government land under dubious circumstances.
“If Siddaramaiah continues in power, there is a possibility of interference in the investigation,” Renukacharya warned, calling for the Chief Minister to step down. “It is inappropriate to cling to the top post even after an FIR has been registered against him,” he emphasised.
BJP Leaders Demand CBI Probe
Adding to the demands for Siddaramaiah’s resignation, District BJP president N Rajashekar expressed doubts about the impartiality of the ongoing investigation into the MUDA case. “Given the current scenario, it is appropriate to hand over the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). If Siddaramaiah refuses to step down, the BJP will intensify its agitation,” Rajashekar said.
The BJP’s calls for a CBI inquiry underscore growing concerns about the transparency and fairness of the probe. According to Rajashekar, only an independent investigation by a national agency can ensure that justice is served in the MUDA case.
Congress-Governor Tensions Add Fuel to the Fire
Renukacharya’s press briefing also touched on an unrelated but significant development involving the strained relationship between the Congress government and the Karnataka Governor. He criticised Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda and other Congress ministers for their remarks against Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, accusing them of disrespecting a person holding a constitutional office.
“Several ministers, including Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, have shown disrespect to the Governor. They have insulted a person holding a constitutional post through their remarks. All of them should apologise to the Governor and adhere to the Constitution,” Renukacharya demanded.
The tension between the Congress leadership and the Governor has been building in recent months, with several instances of friction over administrative decisions and governance issues.
Political Ramifications
The allegations against Siddaramaiah and the growing calls for his resignation are threatening to destabilise his government. With internal rifts within the Congress party becoming more apparent, the opposition BJP is capitalising on the discord to press for an independent probe and heightened public scrutiny.
Renukacharya’s claim that Siddaramaiah’s close aides handed over incriminating documents to the BJP only adds to the intrigue, suggesting that the Chief Minister may be facing opposition not just from rival parties but from within his own ranks.
As the investigation into the MUDA site allotment scam continues, the political landscape in Karnataka appears increasingly volatile. Whether Siddaramaiah will step down or continue to hold on to his position amid the mounting pressure remains to be seen.
The BJP has made it clear that they will not back down, with plans to intensify their protests if the Chief Minister does not resign. The party’s demand for a CBI investigation could set the stage for a larger political showdown in the state.