priyank-kharge-criticises-ed-for-biased-muda-probe

Karnataka Minister and Congress leader Priyank Kharge has strongly criticised the Enforcement Directorate (ED), branding it as the "Enslaved Directorate" and accusing it of being a political tool under the BJP government.

 

Kharge alleged that the ED is operating without jurisdiction and has been leaking fabricated reports to target opposition leaders, including Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramiah.

 

Kharge’s criticism came after the ED’s recent report, which allegedly implicates Chief Minister Siddaramiah in the MUDA case. Taking to social media, Kharge referred to the ED as “helpless puppets” and claimed that its actions further demonstrate the BJP’s misuse of central agencies for political gains.

 

He questioned why similar details regarding the Karnataka BJP State President’s alleged involvement in money laundering had not been disclosed publicly.

 

Siddaramiah also condemned the ED’s actions, accusing it of attempting to prejudice the judiciary. He alleged that the ED had sent a letter to the Lokayukta just a day before a petition concerning the case was scheduled to be heard in the High Court.

 

According to the Chief Minister, this move was politically motivated and intended to influence the court’s proceedings. Siddaramiah added that the ED’s decision to leak the report to the media rather than submitting it after a proper investigation further indicates political malice.

 

In a social media post, Siddaramiah reiterated his stance, stating that the ED should have submitted its findings to the Lokayukta only after completing its probe. He criticised the pre-hearing media leak as a deliberate attempt to tarnish his image and manipulate public perception.

 

The Chief Minister noted that the court had directed the Lokayukta to submit its investigation report by December 24, leaving the ED no valid reason to act prematurely.

 

The ED’s communication with the Karnataka Lokayukta has claimed that the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) had illegally allocated 1,095 sites through benami transactions.

 

The report further alleges that one such site was unlawfully allotted to Siddaramiah’s wife. The claims have triggered a political uproar in Karnataka, with Congress leaders accusing the BJP of orchestrating a smear campaign.

 

Meanwhile, when questioned about rumours of a cabinet reshuffle, Siddaramiah dismissed the speculation. He clarified that no such instructions had been issued by the party’s high command and criticised the media for fabricating stories on the matter.