Governor Sanctions Prosecution of Siddaramaiah

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is facing serious legal challenges after Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot granted permission for his investigation under the Prevention of Corruption Act. However, this sanction is limited only to allowing inquiries into the allegations and does not automatically permit his prosecution.

If the investigation leads to a charge sheet against Siddaramaiah, a separate sanction would be required for his actual prosecution. This is based on Section 19 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, which necessitates prior approval for prosecuting public servants.

Interestingly, Governor Gehlot also allowed for charges to be considered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which could enable courts to act on complaints without needing further investigation. This means that if the allegations combined with those under the Prevention of Corruption Act lead to a charge, the Governor would need to provide extra permission.

Three individuals have already received the Governor’s go-ahead to initiate action against Siddaramaiah related to the alleged MUDA scam, which involves significant land allocation issues in Mysuru. Activists Snehamayi Krishna and T.J. Abraham have filed separate complaints against the Chief Minister, asking for investigations by independent agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation or the Lokayukta police.

As these complaints are reviewed by the Special Court of Sessions in Bangalore, there is a looming possibility of an investigation if the court decides to proceed. However, the ability to press charges rests on whether the Governor grants further sanction post-investigation.

Further complicating matters is the involvement of political figures close to Siddaramaiah, including his son Yathindra, which may require additional layers of legal scrutiny and potential sanctions.

With upcoming court dates set for August 20 and 21, the political landscape in Karnataka remains tense as Siddaramaiah’s government navigates these serious accusations while maintaining its course of governance amidst mounting scrutiny.