Karnataka Home Minister Defends CM in MUDA Scam Controversy

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara expressed hope that Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot would not reject the Cabinet's advice to withdraw the show-cause notice to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah regarding the MUDA site allotment 'scam'. The government has indicated it will fight legally if prosecution is sanctioned.

In a recent statement, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara expressed confidence that Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot will adhere to the Cabinet's advice to withdraw the show-cause notice issued to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in the context of the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) site allotment 'scam'.

Parameshwara noted that, should the Governor reject the Cabinet's counsel and grant permission for prosecution, the Congress-led government is prepared to contest the decision legally. 'We have advised the Governor to dismiss the petition seeking Siddaramaiah's prosecution by activist T J Abraham. I remain optimistic that the Governor will follow our advice,' Parameshwara stated.

He emphasized that while the Governor possesses certain powers, he is hopeful that constitutional norms will be respected. The controversy stems from a show-cause notice issued on July 26, demanding a reply from the Chief Minister on why prosecution should not ensue. The state government's firm stance was reiterated during a recent Cabinet meeting, where it was alleged that efforts were being made to destabilize the elected government for political reasons.

(With inputs from agencies.)