Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Defies Opposition, Rules Out Resignation Amid MUDA Case

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday dismissed rumors surrounding his potential resignation, clarifying that he has yet to review the Karnataka High Court’s decision regarding his plea in the MUDA case. He assured that his response would come after a thorough examination of the judgment.

Addressing a press conference, Siddaramaiah stated, “The High Court has issued an order today. While I have seen reports in the media, I have not yet gone through the full judgment. Once I have studied the ruling, I will respond appropriately, both from a legal and political standpoint.”

Regarding the opposition BJP’s call for his resignation, the chief minister firmly rejected the idea. “There is no reason for me to resign. HD Kumaraswamy is currently out on bail—did he step down?” Siddaramaiah questioned.

He emphasized that resignation is not relevant at this stage, as the inquiry is still ongoing. “How can there be talks of resignation while an investigation is underway? We will handle the situation politically,” he remarked.

The Karnataka High Court recently dismissed Siddaramaiah’s petition, which challenged the Governor’s decision to approve his prosecution in the MUDA scam case.

Siddaramaiah also indicated plans to consult with legal experts, his cabinet colleagues, party leaders, and the Congress High Command to decide on the appropriate course of action. “I will discuss this matter with legal experts and consult with my cabinet and party leadership, including the High Command, to determine the next legal steps,” he added.

The chief minister further accused the opposition BJP and JDS of plotting to destabilize his government through “Operation Kamal,” a term used for the BJP’s alleged attempts to lure away legislators.

“The BJP is attempting to overthrow our government using money power and Operation Kamal, but their efforts have not succeeded,” Siddaramaiah said confidently. He added, “I am not intimidated by the conspiracies of the BJP and JDS. The people support our party, our government, and me. Their futile attempts to destabilize us will not work.”