More trouble for CM Siddaramaiah as another complaint filed in Governor’s office

Mangalore Today News Network

Bengaluru, August 6, 2024: In a significant development, another complaint has been lodged against Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, alleging misconduct in a controversial land de-notification case. The complaint was filed with Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot by RTI activist Snehamayi Krishna, who claims the Chief Minister abused his power to influence the de-notification of government-acquired land.

According to the complaint, Siddaramaiah, while serving as an MLA in 2008, wrote a letter to the District Commissioner requesting the de-notification of land acquired by the government in 1979. The land in question, a 1.39-acre plot bearing survey number 205/2 in Uttanahalli village near Mysuru city, had been earmarked for distribution as Ashraya sites to Below Poverty Line (BPL) holders. However, due to inadequate infrastructure, the beneficiaries were unable to build houses on the land.

Despite the original acquisition taking place 21 years earlier, the district administration allegedly initiated the de-notification process following Siddaramaiah’s letter. Within 14 months, the land’s acquired status was reportedly dropped, raising suspicions of foul play.

Snehamayi Krishna alleges that the de-notification process was marred by fraud, with fake documents purportedly created by an individual named Marappa and several officials. These documents, the complaint claims, led to the unlawful transfer of the land from government ownership to Marappa.

The activist argues that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah misused his position to pressure officials into facilitating the de-notification, effectively reversing three decades of government and beneficiary claims to the land.

In the complaint submitted via registered post, Krishna has urged Governor Gehlot to initiate an investigation against Siddaramaiah and the implicated officials. The activist has called for a formal inquiry by Mysuru District Commissioner Lakshmikanth Reddy, requesting that a report be compiled within 15 days to determine the extent of the alleged misconduct and recommend appropriate action.

As the complaint draws attention to potential abuses of power and legal violations, it adds to the growing list of challenges facing the Chief Minister. The case is expected to garner significant political and public interest as the investigation unfolds.