The Karnataka High Court on Wednesday authorized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to proceed with its investigation into the Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land allotment scandal, involving alleged illegal allotments made to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s wife, Parvathi. This decision allows the ED to use all previously gathered documents, materials, and statements in its ongoing investigation.
This order reverses a previous ruling by a single judge which had quashed the summons issued to DB Natesh, the former MUDA Commissioner, under whose administration the controversial allotments reportedly took place. The high court’s decision effectively restores the ED’s authority to continue its probe not only against Natesh but also against other accused parties in the case.
Natesh is specifically accused of improperly allotting 928 plots on a 50:50 basis from MUDA, a move that purportedly benefited several individuals, including the Chief Minister’s wife. The contentious plot allocations occurred in 2021 in the Vijayanagara area of Mysuru.
The case initially came to light when allegations surfaced that MUDA had acquired 3.16 acres of land from Parvathi in Kesare village under questionable circumstances. In response, the ED conducted a raid on Natesh’s residence on October 29, 2024, subsequently taking him into custody for questioning related to the so-called “MUDA scam.”
This latest judicial directive underscores the seriousness with which the courts are treating allegations of corruption and illegal land dealings within state-run entities. The High Court’s ruling facilitates a thorough investigation by the ED, ensuring that all relevant evidence can be examined to ascertain the truth behind these allegations.
