BENGALURU: Chief minister Siddaramaiah’s image as a paragon of integrity faces a severe test following the governor’s approval to prosecute him for alleged irregularities in obtaining Mysore Urban Development Authority (Muda) alternative sites. The move threatens to sully Siddaramaiah’s carefully cultivated ‘Mr Clean’ reputation.
One of the most influential Congress CMs, Siddaramaiah has dismissed the accusations as unfounded.He is determined to counter the charges legally and politically, insisting on his innocence and challenging his critics to prove wrongdoing. But as the case progresses, Siddaramaiah will likely face escalating pressure from all sides.
In his address during the valedictory of the Janandolana rallies, organised to counter the BJP-JD(S) padayatra, he defended his clean record, asserting, “I do not own any other sites or properties. I sold two properties to repay a loan, and I currently hold one for my retirement.”
Only the second Karnataka chief minister after Devaraj Urs to complete a full five-year term, Siddaramaiah has long been known for his commitment to Dr Ram Manohar Lohia’s socialist ideals. His political career began in 1978, inspired by reputed farmers leader Prof Nanjunda Swamy, and he joined the Congress in 2006. Besides his clean image and straightforward approach, his efforts to consolidate Ahinda (Kannada acronym for minorities, backward classes, and Dalits) votes have set him apart.
However, analyst MN Patil argues that the alleged Muda and Valmiki ST corporation development scams have significantly tarnished Siddaramaiah’s reputation. “His situation mirrors that of former chief ministers BS Yediyurappa and S Ban- garappa, both of whom faced backlash over corruption allegations,” Patil said.
Some senior ministers also criticized Siddaramaiah for his handling of party dynamics, noting his failure to consult senior functionaries like KPCC chief DK Shivakumar and his sidelining of old allies such as KJ George, MB Patil, and HC Mahadevappa cost him dear. “He granted excessive leeway to family members and urban development minister Byrathi Suresh, who hails from the Kuruba community,” they said. This approach is reminiscent of Yediyurappa’s downfall, which also stemmed from prioritising family over senior party members.
Moreover, Siddaramaiah’s confrontations with the central govt over various issues have been deemed a strategic error. “While his political stance has been correct, as chief minister, he should have respected the federal structure and maintained a cooperative relationship with the Centre to advance the state’s progress,” Patil said.
Already, some Congress members are reportedly considering alternative leadership options, with Shivakumar eyeing the chief minister’s role. The coming weeks will be critical as Siddaramaiah navigates this mounting political storm.
