Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], November 6 (ANI): Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah appeared before the Lokayukta Police in Mysuru on Wednesday in connection with the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam.

After the questioning, he stated, "The Lokayukta is an independent agency, like the CBI. The governor has recommended that the MUDA case be investigated by the Lokayukta."

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He further remarked, "I have answered all the questions posed by the Lokayukta. My responses have been recorded, and the Lokayukta will continue its investigation." He clarified, "My wife has returned the sites, given that accusations have been levelled against me."

Meanwhile, Karnataka State Minister MB Patil confirmed that CM Siddaramaiah fully cooperated with the Lokayukta Police, dismissing the ongoing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) protests as mere "drama."

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Speaking to ANI, Patil said, "The CM has appeared before the Lokayukta Police and appropriately answered all inquiries." He also criticised the BJP protests, stating, "The BJP can protest against anyone... It's all drama."

Earlier, Siddaramaiah's Political Secretary Naseer Ahmed accused the BJP-led central government of trying to harass the CM. "There are no charges against him. He has appeared before the Lokayukta Police out of respect for the law. He has a clear conscience and is a man of integrity," Ahmed asserted. He also claimed, "These are all fabricated cases filed by the BJP... They aim to harass the CM using various agencies, but they will find nothing. The more they harass him, the more public sympathy he will gain."

Following his questioning, CM Siddaramaiah reiterated to reporters, "The Lokayukta is an independent agency, like the CBI. I have answered all questions, and my responses have been recorded. The investigation will proceed." He added, "My wife has returned those sites in light of the allegations against me."

The Lokayukta began its inquiry into the MUDA scam after a court order on September 27, which directed the filing of an FIR. The case involves the alleged illegal allotment of 14 sites, worth Rs 56 crore, to Siddaramaiah's wife, Parvathi. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also initiated a money laundering case, naming Siddaramaiah, his wife, and others connected to the transactions.

Despite mounting allegations, Siddaramaiah has denied any wrongdoing, calling the case politically motivated. He has refused to resign despite ongoing pressure from the BJP.

On Tuesday, the Karnataka High Court issued notices concerning the MUDA land allotment investigation, directing the Lokayukta Police to submit a progress report by November 25. (ANI)

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