6 November, 2024; In a recent development that has sparked political controversy in Karnataka, former BJP leader KS Eshwarappa expressed strong disapproval of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s appearance before the Lokayukta Police. Eshwarappa, who is no stranger to voicing his concerns about the state’s leadership, stated that it was unprecedented for a Karnataka chief minister to personally appear before the Lokayukta to answer questions in a case.
The case in question involves allegations related to the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam. CM Siddaramaiah appeared before the Lokayukta Police in Mysuru to respond to questions concerning the accusations. Speaking on the matter, Eshwarappa described Siddaramaiah’s appearance as a “black day in history,” claiming that it brought dishonor to the chief minister’s position.
Eshwarappa went further, calling for Siddaramaiah’s resignation. He argued that the chief minister should step down until his name is cleared by the investigation. “He should resign, and he can be the CM again if he gets a clean chit after the inquiry,” Eshwarappa asserted, adding that such an action would restore dignity to the office and allow the investigation to proceed without any influence from the highest position in the state government.
Eshwarappa’s statement has added fuel to an already heated political climate in Karnataka, where the opposition has been vocal about its concerns regarding corruption and governance. The MUDA scam investigation is ongoing, and while Siddaramaiah has cooperated with the Lokayukta’s inquiries, his appearance has led to increased scrutiny from political rivals.
This incident highlights the growing divide between the ruling party and the opposition in Karnataka. With elections on the horizon, the issue is likely to be a key point of debate as parties attempt to sway public opinion by focusing on issues of transparency, governance, and accountability.