Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has taken legal action against Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot’s recent decision to sanction an investigation into alleged irregularities concerning the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). On Monday, Siddaramaiah filed a writ petition in the High Court, challenging the August 16 order that authorised an inquiry under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and Section 218 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.

Legal Challenge and Petition
Siddaramaiah’s petition argues that the Governor’s sanction was granted without proper consideration of statutory requirements and constitutional principles. He contends that the decision violates Article 163 of the Constitution of India, which mandates that the advice of the Council of Ministers should be binding on the Governor. The Chief Minister describes the order as “legally unsustainable, procedurally flawed, and motivated by extraneous considerations,” seeking to quash the impugned order and obtain other reliefs.

The High Court is scheduled to hear the petition at 2:30 p.m. today.

Context of the Allegations
The controversy centres around allegations that compensatory sites were improperly allocated to Siddaramaiah’s wife, Parvathi, in a high-value area of Mysuru, which is reportedly more valuable than her original land acquired by MUDA. The sanction for prosecution was granted after complaints from three private individuals.

Political Reactions and Social Media Response
On social media, Siddaramaiah has sharply rebuked BJP Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka for his call for resignation. Siddaramaiah’s response highlighted the differences between his situation and that of former Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, who faced prosecution permission under Governor Hansraj Bhardwaj in 2011 related to the Rachenahalli denotification scam.

In his post, Siddaramaiah questioned why Ashoka demanded his resignation when Yediyurappa did not resign despite having strong evidence against him. Siddaramaiah pointed out that Yediyurappa remained in office despite prosecution permission, suggesting that Ashoka’s demand for his resignation was inconsistent.

Governor’s Sanction
Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot’s sanction for Siddaramaiah’s prosecution follows a complaint regarding the MUDA site allotment. The move has sparked a heated political debate, with Siddaramaiah’s legal challenge reflecting the ongoing tension between the state government and opposition parties.

The situation continues to develop, with the court’s decision and further political reactions likely to influence the unfolding drama.

Read More : Siddaramaiah Defends Integrity Amid MUDA Scam Allegations