MYSURU: Former President of Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) HV Rajeev finds himself at the centre of a controversy over allegations of misusing his influence to secure approval for the allotment of 848 plots in a single day to the Jnanaganga Housing Co-operative Society, of which he serves as president. This alleged allotment took place during a MUDA meeting in 2022 when Rajeev was still a member of the BJP. Rajeev later switched to the Congress following the 2023 assembly elections, which has sparked further suspicion regarding his motives.
The accusations stem from a report by a technical committee, which claims that the transfer of 848 plots from MUDA to the Jnanaganga Housing Co-operative Society was carried out despite the case being sub-judice. According to the committee, this transfer violated existing regulations. The report also highlights that the co-operative society received approval for constructing housing across 252 acres and 10 guntas in Kergalli, Nagarthalli, and Ballahalli villages. However, several survey numbers from this region are currently embroiled in court disputes, making the transfer of these land rights illegal. Despite this, the plots were allegedly allotted in a single day without securing the necessary approvals, including a NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the local body.
It has been claimed that the release of these plots took place without the knowledge or consent of the then MUDA Commissioner, D.B. Natesh, who reportedly raised the issue with the government in writing. However, no substantial action has been taken even two years after the incident. BJP MLA T.S. Srivatsa has accused Rajeev of joining the Congress to shield himself from potential legal consequences, alleging that Rajeev sought protection from the new government after switching parties.
Srivatsa also criticised the release of the plots as a violation of standard protocols. He pointed out that releasing the plots without completing the necessary development work and obtaining the required NOCs further exemplifies the disregard for legal procedures. Srivatsa emphasized that despite the former commissioner flagging the issue, no steps have been taken to address the alleged misconduct.
Urban Development Minister Bairati Suresh commented on the matter, stating that an investigation is currently being conducted by the PN Desai Commission. The minister assured the public that action would be taken against those found guilty but denied any wrongdoing in the approval process for the Gnanaganga Housing Co-operative Society. He maintained that the allotment was carried out according to established rules.
For his part, HV Rajeev defended himself against the accusations, stating that the society members had been waiting for the land for a long time, having paid money in advance. Rajeev denied presiding over the MUDA meeting where the decision was made, clarifying that the meeting had been chaired by former MLA SA Ramdas, and he had deliberately distanced himself due to his role as the president of the housing co-operative society. Rajeev further dismissed the accusations as politically motivated, accusing the BJP of stirring controversy without basis.
Rajeev stated that the co-operative society had followed all legal procedures, and he plans to provide a written response to those criticizing the decision in the coming days. He strongly refuted claims of any illegal activity and reiterated his commitment to transparency.
As the investigation by the PN Desai Commission continues, the controversy surrounding the allotment of these plots remains a significant point of contention in Mysuru’s political landscape, with both the Congress and BJP trading barbs over the legitimacy of the process.
