Siddaramaiah government accuses BJP of misappropriating COVID-19 funds
A new scam involving the alleged misuse of COVID-19 funds during the Bharatiya Janata Party's administration in Karnataka has taken center stage, overshadowing the ongoing controversy around the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). The alleged misappropriation took place under the leadership of former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, sparking claims of political retaliation. A preliminary report reviewed by the Karnataka cabinet highlights major irregularities, with around ₹1,000 crore allegedly siphoned from the ₹13,000 crore pandemic fund.
CM Siddaramaiah highlights concerns in cabinet meeting
During the cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah highlighted three key points from Justice Justice John Michael D'Cunha's report. He stated that the judge made serious remarks regarding the misappropriation of hundreds of crores. Sources revealed the report also mentioned several missing files that were not presented to the judge, despite multiple requests. The final report is anticipated within six months and may be tabled during the winter session of parliament.
Final report on fund misappropriation expected soon
The government has extended the committee's tenure by six months to allow for submission of the final report. A comprehensive interim report spanning over 1,000 pages will be analyzed by officers and submitted to the government within a month. The Cunha report is considered a boost for the Congress and CM Siddaramaiah, who has been under BJP scrutiny over the MUDA scam. Siddaramaiah has challenged the Governor's approval to prosecute him in court.
What's the MUDA scam
The scam allegedly involves irregularities in land distribution by the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). Accusations suggest that compensatory land allocated to BM Parvathi, Siddaramaiah's wife, significantly exceeds the value of the land exchanged.
Interim report recommends criminal action, BJP reacts
Separately, the interim report of the inquiry commission has recommended criminal action against those involved in the misappropriation of funds. The probe panel's report reviewed purchases and procurements worth ₹6,651 crore made by various health and medical institutions. In response to these allegations, BJP leader and former health minister K Sudhakar accused the state government of "political vendetta" but expressed his readiness to face an inquiry.
