ED Summons MUDA Employees in Karnataka Scam Probe Involving Chief Minister

The Enforcement Directorate has summoned six employees of the Mysuru Urban Development Authority for questioning related to a money-laundering case against Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The case includes allegations involving family members and potentially seizing assets. Siddaramaiah denies the allegations, claiming political persecution.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its investigation into a significant scam involving the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) by summoning six employees for questioning. Sources confirmed on Friday that the individuals will be interrogated at the ED's zonal office in Bengaluru on different dates, marking a critical phase in the probe.

These employees have been asked to produce several documents pertinent to the ongoing investigation. The ED's inquiries have primarily focused on establishing connections with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his associates. This latest development follows a money-laundering case filed last month by the ED against Siddaramaiah, sparked by a First Information Report from the state Lokayukta concerning MUDA-related activities.

The FIR lists Siddaramaiah, his wife B.M. Parvathi, and his brother-in-law Mallikarjuna Swamy, among others, highlighting land transactions that have come under scrutiny. Under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the ED holds the authority to summon individuals and potentially seize assets involved in the allegations. Despite the mounting evidence, Siddaramaiah has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, attributing the scrutiny to political tactics and maintaining his refusal to resign amidst pressure from opposing political factions. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)