Siddaramaiah Linked to Rs 300 Crore Asset Seizure: ED Probe Unveiled
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has seized assets worth approximately ₹300 crore as part of its ongoing money laundering investigation linked to alleged land allotment irregularities involving the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). The case implicates Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and others, raising political and public scrutiny.
Details of the Asset Seizure
The ED’s action targets over 140 immovable properties reportedly registered in the names of various real estate businessmen and agents. The federal agency stated that these properties were linked to a scheme that allegedly exploited MUDA’s compensation policy to illegally distribute land.
Among the allegations, Siddaramaiah is accused of using his political clout to secure 14 prime plots as compensation for three acres and 16 guntas of land acquired by MUDA. According to the ED, the original compensation for the land was pegged at ₹3.24 lakh, while the 14 plots in question are valued at an estimated ₹56 crore.
The Chief Minister’s Response
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has been questioned by the Karnataka Lokayukta regarding the allegations, has consistently denied any involvement in the purported wrongdoing. He asserts that the accusations are politically motivated and designed to tarnish his reputation. Siddaramaiah dismissed the claims, describing them as attempts by opposition parties to undermine his leadership.
MUDA Officials Under Investigation
The ED has highlighted the role of former MUDA Commissioner D.B. Natesh as being “instrumental” in facilitating these controversial land allotments. The investigation has uncovered that numerous sites, including the 14 allotted to Siddaramaiah’s wife, Parvathi, were illegally transferred to real estate players. These individuals reportedly sold the plots at exorbitant rates, generating unaccounted cash.
The agency alleges that the illicit profits were laundered and presented as legitimate earnings. Furthermore, sites were allegedly registered under “benami” names and other proxies tied to influential figures and real estate operators.
Incriminating Evidence Uncovered
The ED reported the recovery of substantial evidence during its searches, including documentation pointing to illegal payments made to the then MUDA chairman and commissioner. The recovered items reportedly include land deeds, financial transactions, and other assets such as luxury vehicles. The agency also uncovered instances where funds were funneled through a cooperative society to purchase properties and assets under the names of relatives of key officials.
The ED’s findings are a significant escalation in its investigation into MUDA’s operations. The agency alleges systematic abuse of compensation mechanisms to benefit politically connected individuals and real estate speculators, a scheme that has reportedly enriched many while compromising public resources.
Also see:
Auspicious Amrit Snan at Maha Kumbh 2025
Blue Origin New Glenn Rocket Launch Delayed
China Considers TikTok US Sale to Elon Musk
Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: A Historic Convergence of Devotion and Tradition
—————————————————————
It would mean the world to us if you follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
