Karnataka revokes CBI's probe Permission, claims agency is biased
- In Reports
- 08:46 PM, Sep 26, 2024
- Myind Staff
Karnataka has withdrawn its open consent for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct inquiries in the state, citing concerns over the agency's alleged bias. Law Minister HK Patil stated that the decision reflects the state's worries about potential misuse of the CBI, particularly in light of accusations that the agency is being used to target opposition leaders ahead of elections.
He emphasised that this move is not connected to the ongoing land scam allegations involving Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Patil also highlighted the Cabinet's solidarity with the Chief Minister, encouraging him to confront the challenges ahead.
Law Minister HK Patil criticized the CBI for its inaction on cases referred by the state, stating that the agency has not filed chargesheets and has left many cases pending. He expressed that the withdrawal of open consent is intended to prevent the CBI from misusing its powers.
This decision aligns Karnataka with other opposition-led states, such as West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, which have also revoked open consent for the CBI. The revocation means that the CBI must now obtain written consent from state governments to proceed with investigations, as stipulated by the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act.
The tensions between opposition-ruled states and the BJP-led central government have intensified, with opposition parties accusing the BJP of using agencies like the CBI to target their leaders, especially in the lead-up to elections. In December, the central government reacted strongly to these moves, arguing that requiring the CBI to seek permission from states significantly restricts its investigative capabilities.
A Parliamentary panel has suggested the need for legislation that would enable the CBI to conduct investigations without state interference, highlighting the ongoing conflict over agency authority and political accountability.
The Parliamentary panel acknowledged the need for safeguards to maintain the CBI's objectivity and impartiality, aiming to prevent states from claiming discrimination in its operations. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is currently facing legal challenges, as a trial court has ordered a police case related to the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority land scam. This development follows the High Court's decision to dismiss Siddaramaiah's challenge against a prosecution order issued by Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot. These events further complicate the ongoing tensions between state leadership and central authorities.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will face an inquiry regarding allegations that his wife, Parvathi, received multiple plots of land in a prime Mysuru area as compensation for land taken for infrastructure projects, a deal that is claimed to have resulted in state losses of at least ₹4,000 crore. Following the recent court rulings, both the BJP and its ally, the Janata Dal Secular, have intensified their criticism of the Congress and Siddaramaiah, calling for his resignation on moral grounds. This situation further escalates the political tensions in the state, especially as elections approach.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has firmly rejected calls to resign and denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he has not engaged in illegal activities during his four-decade political career and expressing confidence that he will be cleared of charges. He has received support from the Congress party, including his deputy, DK Shivakumar, and other cabinet members like IT Minister Priyank Kharge. However, there are dissenting voices within the Congress, such as former Assembly Speaker KB Koliwad, who believe he should step down. This internal divide adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing political situation in Karnataka.
Image source: NDTV
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