MYSURU: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its probe into allegations of irregularities in land allotments by the Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA), implicating Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s wife, Parvathi Siddaramaiah, close aides, and senior officials. The case revolves around the allocation of 13 plots applied for by the CM’s wife, which eventually led to the allotment of 14 plots, raising suspicions of procedural violations.
The ED has interrogated CM’s personal assistant CT Kumar and former Mysuru District Commissioner, now Member of Parliament, G. Kumar Naik, over their alleged roles in facilitating the irregularities.
In January 2022, Parvathi Siddaramaiah reportedly submitted an application requesting the allotment of 13 plots on a 50-50 sharing basis with MUDA. These included plots in Vijayanagar 3rd Phase (Blocks C, D, E, and G) and Vijayanagar 4th Phase, 2nd Phase. The requested sites were listed as Plot Nos. 25, 331, 332, 213, 214, 215, 05, 5108, 5085, 11189, 10855, 12065, and 12068. However, the process saw the allocation of 14 plots, sparking allegations of irregularities and favoritism.
The CM’s personal assistant, CT Kumar—who also serves Siddaramaiah’s son, Yatindra, in the Varuna constituency—played a key role. Documents reveal Kumar signed and facilitated the application on behalf of Parvathi. However, discrepancies in the application, including incorrect information and procedural lapses, have now surfaced.
ED’s Focus on MP Kumar Naik
G Kumar Naik, who served as Mysuru’s deputy commissioner from 2002 to 2005, is also under the scanner. During his tenure, land originally acquired by MUDA was allegedly converted back into agricultural land through dubious means. This conversion enabled subsequent sales that are now under ED scrutiny.
One key transaction involves a 3.16-acre plot originally acquired by MUDA, which was converted back into agricultural land based on a report submitted by the Tehsildar without proper site inspection. The land was later sold by Devaraju, the original owner, to Mallikarjuna Swamy in 2004, raising questions about procedural integrity.
Questionable Role of Officials
The ED suspects collusion between MUDA officials, the CM’s aides, and landowners to bypass regulations and enable the questionable allotment of land. Allegations include:
Misuse of Authority: The allotment of 14 plots despite an application for 13
Irregularity in allotting sites: The sites allotted to applicant illegally since the said property was already acquired by MUDA and it was not agriculture land as claimed by CM.
Potential Financial Irregularities: The exchange sites were given at Vijayanagara fourth stage while land acquired in Kesare village is of less value linked to the CM’s family.
Implications for the Siddaramaiah Government
This investigation comes at a politically sensitive time, potentially undermining the Congress government’s image. Opposition parties, including the BJP, have seized the opportunity to accuse the Siddaramaiah administration of nepotism and corruption.
The BJP spokesperson remarked, “This is a clear case of abuse of power for personal gain. The Congress government claims to stand for the people, but its actions speak otherwise.”
The ED has directed CM’s aide CT Kumar and MP Kumar Naik to provide detailed explanations regarding their involvement. The agency is also examining financial transactions and property ownership records to trace any illegal gains.
The ED is expected to summon more officials and stakeholders in the coming days, signaling that the probe into the Mysuru land allotment case is far from over.
Congress Accused of Silencing RTI Activist by Filing FIR Amid MUDA Scam Allegations
The Congress party finds itself at the center of controversy after an FIR was registered against RTI activist and social worker Snehamayi Krishna at Devaraja Police Station in Mysuru on Tuesday. Snehamayi, known for his vocal criticism of alleged irregularities in the MUDA , has now become the target of legal action following a complaint filed by KPCC spokesperson M. Lakshman.
Allegations Surrounding the MUDA Scam
Snehamayi Krishna had raised serious objections over the stamp duty discrepancies in the purchase of a site by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s wife, B.M. Parvathi, from MUDA. Accusing Snehamayi of blackmail and exerting undue pressure on the Chief Minister through daily accusations, Lakshman filed the complaint that led to the FIR.
The activist had earlier exposed alleged procedural violations , filed complaint in Lokayukta and had sought a Lokayukta investigation into the MUDA land allotment process. The court subsequently ordered the inquiry, putting the spotlight on the ruling Congress government and its associates.
FIR: A Move to Intimidate?
Political experts argue that the FIR is an attempt to silence Snehamayi Krishna, who has been relentless in exposing alleged corruption. “This is nothing but an attempt to suppress a whistleblower,” said a source close to the activist. Over the past two months, Snehamayi, alongside activist TJ Abraham, has been vocal about systemic irregularities and alleged misuse of power within MUDA.
Concerns Over Lokayukta Investigation
As the Lokayukta probe progresses, Snehamayi has raised concerns about its transparency, filing complaints against the investigating officer for alleged misconduct. He accused the Lokayukta ADGP of ignoring complaints and claimed the officer faced daily pressure to undermine the investigation. Lakshman countered these claims in his complaint, accusing Snehamayi of obstructing the investigation and spreading misinformation to derail the process.
Snehamayi’s Defiant Stand
In response to the FIR, Snehamayi issued a strong rebuttal and directly challenged Lakshman. He referred to an audio clip shared on CM Siddaramaiah’s Twitter account, demanding forensic analysis to verify its authenticity.
“If it’s proven to be my voice, I will withdraw my allegations. But if it’s yours, will you retire from politics?” he questioned.
Social Media Outcry
Taking to social media, Snehamayi lashed out at the Congress government, accusing them of using state machinery to intimidate dissenters. “Your government has the power. Send the audio for FSL verification and release the report. People are calling you cowards for not addressing the issue,” she posted, directly attacking Lakshman.
The case has triggered resentment , with opposition leaders accusing the Congress of trying to stifle dissent. Meanwhile, Snehamayi continues to stand his ground, vowing to fight for accountability in the MUDA scam.
The FIR, seen by many as a desperate measure to deflect scrutiny, has added fuel to the fire, raising serious questions about the Congress party’s commitment to transparency and whistleblower protection.
