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Karnataka Lokayukta MUDA case
Karnataka Lokayukta Grills Ex-MUDA Commissioner in Alleged Scam Involving CM
The Karnataka Lokayukta MUDA case continues to capture public attention as former Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) Commissioner DB Natesh was questioned by the Lokayukta regarding alleged irregularities involving Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s family. The Lokayukta, Karnataka’s anti-corruption watchdog, is scrutinizing claims of improper allotment of 14 alternative sites allegedly given to Siddaramaiah’s wife. This high-profile investigation seeks to uncover the truth behind the MUDA land allocations and whether any procedural or legal breaches occurred.
Background of the MUDA Allotment Controversy
The Karnataka Lokayukta MUDA case first surfaced when allegations were made that 14 alternative plots had been improperly allotted to the Chief Minister’s family. The case also involves former MUDA President Dhruvakumar, who was in office when the decision to allocate these sites was made. Both Natesh and Dhruvakumar have been questioned in connection to their roles in the allotment process, which is now under judicial scrutiny.
The investigation is being led by Mysuru Lokayukta Superintendent of Police (SP) Udesh, who received authorization from the Chief Secretary of Karnataka to question Natesh regarding his involvement in the allotment decisions.
Natesh’s Responses and Media Interaction
When former Commissioner DB Natesh arrived at the Lokayukta office in Mysuru, he seemed visibly frustrated by the media’s presence. Reporters captured him arriving by auto-rickshaw, and Natesh expressed annoyance, questioning the media’s need for recording his arrival. His remarks reflected the stress he has been under since the Karnataka Lokayukta MUDA case came to light. Natesh stated that he has been cooperating fully with the investigation, providing any information requested by authorities.
During a brief media interaction, Natesh shared his concerns about the toll the investigation has taken on him and his family, mentioning that the intense pressure affects not only his professional life but also his family relationships. He remarked, “Along with being an officer, I am a father, husband, and son. Only those going through this know the pressures.”
Allegations and Progress of the Investigation
The Karnataka Lokayukta MUDA case centers on allegations that DB Natesh, along with other MUDA officials, may have created fake documents to facilitate land allocations for the Chief Minister’s family. According to petitioner Snehamayi Krishna, the Lokayukta’s investigation marks a critical point in determining the legitimacy of the land allotments. Krishna claims that the allotment process was manipulated to favor the family of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, though Natesh has not directly commented on these allegations.
Earlier, in October, a team of five Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials searched Natesh’s residence in Bengaluru’s Malleshwaram neighborhood, seeking further evidence in the Karnataka Lokayukta MUDA case. This raid was conducted to obtain additional documentation that could potentially support the case or shed more light on the alleged misconduct.
Judicial Oversight and Future Developments
Natesh assured the media that the investigation is progressing under judicial supervision, and he expressed hope that the truth would be revealed once the inquiry is complete. The investigative team is expected to clarify the legal grounds under which the land was allocated and determine whether MUDA officials followed the necessary provisions.
Natesh remarked, “Let the investigation agency find out the facts. We will provide all the information, and the court will scrutinize the matter.” His statements imply a willingness to let the law run its course, trusting that the judiciary will uncover the validity of the Karnataka Lokayukta MUDA case.
Notice Issued to Other Key Figures
The Lokayukta Police have issued a second notice to Devaraju, the landowner and the fourth accused in the case. Devaraju has been asked to appear before the Lokayukta for questioning regarding his role in the allotment process. Alongside Devaraju, former MUDA President Dhruvakumar has also received a notice, as the disputed decision to allocate alternative sites was taken during his tenure.
These recent developments underscore the seriousness with which the Lokayukta is handling the Karnataka Lokayukta MUDA case. By bringing multiple parties in for questioning, the authorities hope to gain a comprehensive understanding of any potential rule violations in the land allotment process.
Conclusion: Awaiting Judicial Findings
As the Karnataka Lokayukta MUDA case unfolds, it continues to raise questions about the allotment practices of MUDA and the involvement of high-profile figures, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s family. Former Commissioner DB Natesh’s responses to the media and his cooperation with the investigation reflect his determination to clear his name, though he has declined to provide specific details as the case is under judicial review.
With the inquiry still in progress and further court oversight expected, the Lokayukta’s investigation promises to reveal key facts surrounding the MUDA allotment controversy. As officials work to untangle these allegations, Karnataka residents and media await the findings that could have far-reaching implications for the state’s governance and regulatory practices.
