Bengaluru - The Karnataka High Court has delivered a significant blow to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah by dismissing his challenge to Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot's decision to sanction his prosecution in the alleged MUDA land scam case.
Justice M Nagaprasanna, in his ruling, stated that the Governor "did apply his mind in abundance" and that the order sanctioning prosecution "does not suffer from non-application of mind." The court concluded, "There is no fault in the Governor's actions. The facts narrated need investigation. The petition is dismissed."
This decision paves the way for the lower court to initiate legal proceedings against the Chief Minister, including the filing of a first information report. The High Court also rejected a plea by senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing Siddaramaiah, to stay the order for two weeks.
Political Implications
The verdict has intensified political tensions in Karnataka. The BJP, the main opposition party, has seized on the ruling to demand Siddaramaiah's resignation. BY Vijayendra, the BJP's state unit chief, called for the Chief Minister to "resign immediately, without further delay."
In response, the Congress party has rallied behind Siddaramaiah. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar alleged "a big conspiracy" against their leaders, stating, "We will fight it out. We respect the legal system... we will get justice."
Chief Minister's Defense
Siddaramaiah had argued that the Governor's order sanctioning his prosecution was illegal, as it was made without state approval. His legal team, led by Abhishek Singhvi, contended that the Governor "hasn't applied his mind" and that the sanction was "fully reviewable."
The Chief Minister also warned that allowing the Governor's sanction to stand would "disrupt governance and potentially result in political destabilisation."
Despite the setback, Siddaramaiah expressed confidence in the judicial system, stating, "I believe in the law and the Constitution... The truth will finally win."
Security Measures
In anticipation of the verdict, security was heightened around the Chief Minister's residence, and police were placed on high alert to prevent any "untoward incidents."
This ruling comes at a sensitive time for the Congress party, with elections in Haryana approaching next week. The case continues to be a focal point of political debate in Karnataka, with both the ruling party and the opposition interpreting its implications for the state's governance.
