The Karnataka High Court dismissed CM Siddaramaiah's petition, challenging the governor's approval for an investigation in the alleged MUDA scam. The CM, however, refused to resign and vowed to fight back against the BJP and JDS' conspiracy to destabilize his government. He expressed confidence in his support from the Congress high command and the people of Karnataka in the face of political retaliation. However, the BJP has demanded his resignation, citing the HC ruling that the governor's approval was lawful.
Karnataka High Court Dismisses CM Siddaramaiah's Plea in MUDA Scam Investigation
The Karnataka High Court on [Date] dismissed a petition filed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah challenging the Governor's decision to approve an investigation into the alleged Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam. The CM, however, has refused to resign and has vowed to fight back against the alleged conspiracy by the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (Secular) (JDS) to destabilize his government.
Background:
The MUDA scam pertains to allegations of irregularities in the allotment of plots by the MUDA during Siddaramaiah's tenure as Chief Minister of Karnataka from 2013 to 2018. The scam came to light after BJP leader Tejasvi Surya filed a complaint with the Governor in 2020. Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot then granted permission for an investigation into the allegations.
High Court Ruling:
In its ruling, the Karnataka High Court dismissed Siddaramaiah's petition, stating that the Governor's approval for the investigation was lawful and valid. The court also observed that the Governor had acted in accordance with the provisions of the constitution and that the probe could proceed.
Siddaramaiah's Response:
CM Siddaramaiah refused to resign despite the High Court ruling. He accused the BJP and JDS of indulging in a political vendetta against him and his government. Siddaramaiah expressed confidence that he had the support of the Congress high command as well as the people of Karnataka.
BJP's Demand and Political Fallout:
The BJP and JDS have demanded Siddaramaiah's resignation in light of the High Court ruling. They have argued that the CM has lost the moral authority to continue in office. The political battle over the MUDA scam is expected to intensify in the coming days, with the possibility of further legal challenges and political maneuvering.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
Q1: What is the MUDA scam? A: It pertains to allegations of irregularities in the allotment of plots by the MUDA during CM Siddaramaiah's tenure.
Q2: Why did the Governor approve a probe into the scam? A: After a complaint by BJP leader Tejasvi Surya, the Governor granted permission for an investigation.
Q3: What was the High Court's ruling? A: The court dismissed CM Siddaramaiah's petition and held that the Governor's approval for the investigation was lawful.
Q4: Has CM Siddaramaiah resigned? A: No, he has refused to resign and has vowed to fight back against the allegations.
Q5: What are the potential political consequences? A: The political battle over the MUDA scam is expected to intensify, with the possibility of further legal challenges and political maneuvering.
In a digitized effort, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis transferred a grant of ₹25 crore to 560 gaushalas across the state under the Desi Cow Conservation Scheme. This first phase of the scheme will benefit over 56,000 indigenous cows for their upkeep. Fadnavis emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous cows for rural development and praised the initiative taken by the Maharashtra Goseva Commission. With lower milk productivity, these cow shelters play a vital role in providing necessary care for non-milking and unproductive cows, making the scheme a major relief for them.
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the BJP for taking 10 months to select a national president, while Amit Shah countered by pointing out dynastic practices among opposition parties. Reports suggest that the BJP will announce its new national president by the third week of April to replace JP Nadda. Nadda's tenure was extended until June 2024, but the new president will still be chosen after a process involving the party's 12-13 crore members.
Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi vehemently opposes the Waqf amendment bill during a Lok Sabha discussion, stating that it is an attack on the foundation of Parliament and the Constitution. He also alleges that the government has ulterior motives for pushing the amendment, including diluting the Constitution, defaming minorities, dividing society, and disenfranchising the minority community. He questions the timing of the amendment and accuses the BJP-led government of restricting religious freedoms in India.
US President Donald Trump has sparked controversy by hinting at ways to stay in power beyond his second term. While the 22nd Amendment limits presidential terms to two, Trump believes there are "methods" to get around it. This raises concerns about the sanctity of democracy and the potential for abuse of power. The idea of a third term for any president has been largely rejected in American history, making this a crucial issue to watch.
The Indian Express has reported exclusively that the BJP may ask K Annamalai to step down as the party's Tamil Nadu president, in order to avoid having both BJP and AIADMK's state election faces come from the Gounder community. This move is seen as a strategic decision to strengthen the BJP's alliance with AIADMK, as both Annamalai and AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami belong to this community. Despite his successful leadership style, Annamalai has reportedly been assured of a bright future within the party and has pledged complete loyalty.
The Lok Sabha braces itself for a heated session as the Centre brings back the divisive Waqf (Amendment) Bill for consideration and passage. The eight-hour debate, agreed upon by leaders from all major parties, could be extended after taking the sense of the House. The previously introduced bill had faced backlash from the Opposition and was sent to a Joint Committee for further scrutiny, leading to clashes over proposed amendments and dissent notes being allegedly redacted. Some of the biggest points of contention include allowing non-Muslims to hold key positions in the Waqf board, giving power to the District Collector to determine ownership of disputed property, and removing the tribunal's final decision clause.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font held discussions on enhancing bilateral relations between India and Chile, particularly in the economic, commercial, and societal sectors. They also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat and announced the start of negotiations for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement. The Chilean President is on a five-day state visit to India, accompanied by a high-level delegation.
The controversial Godman, Ram Rahim, who is serving a 20-year jail sentence for rape, has been granted a 30-day parole by the Haryana government. His release coincides with the upcoming assembly elections in Delhi, raising questions about the timing of the decision. Ram Rahim's parole last year before the Haryana assembly elections was also met with criticism. With a mass following in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana, the parole has sparked a debate on the influence of religious leaders in politics. IBNS, an objective news agency, strives to provide factual and unbiased news without any biases or agendas.
It has been speculated that K Annamalai, the current BJP Tamil Nadu president, may step down from his position as alliance talks between the BJP and AIADMK intensify. The move comes amid concerns over caste equations and the BJP's strategy to consolidate its hold beyond the western region of Tamil Nadu. Sources reveal that Annamalai has expressed complete loyalty to the party and may take on a national role or a different assignment in the state.
In a scathing attack, Tamil Maanila Congress leader and former Union Minister G.K. Vasan criticized the DMK government in Tamil Nadu for the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. Vasan accused the ruling party of using divisive issues to distract from their failures, corruption, and scams. He demanded a white paper on the alleged Rs 1,000-crore financial fraud involving the state-run corporation responsible for liquor sales. The Enforcement Directorate has conducted raids in connection with suspected financial irregularities, targeting the TASMAC headquarters, distilleries, and liquor contractors.