A discussion on the Lokayukta investigation into documents seized from the residence of Muniratna, Congress MLA, led to BJP MLCs walking out of the Legislative Council after accusing the government of transferring the investigating officer in a bid to protect the accused. In reply to the issue, raised by Ashwanthnarayan, MLC, as a call attention motion on Thursday, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah declined to comment saying the Lokayukta probe is on, but assured that ‘the government is committed to act on its report’.
He defended the transfer of Lokayukta Superintendent of Police B.A. Mahesh, arguing that it was done “in normal course” and in consultation with the Lokayukta.
“We are not bound to consult the opposition on transfer of officials,” said Home Minister K.J. George.
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Unhappy with the chief minister’s response, Mr. Ashwathnarayan tore up the reply, which led to chaos. BJP members walked out even as the Chief Minister was heard saying that he “need not learn lessons from a party known for corruption”.
The background
In December 2014, when Lokayukta police raided a house in Vyalikaval owned by Muniratna, they found a BBMP Executive Engineer and three contractors in possession of files related to civic works pertaining to Rajarajeshwari Nagar zone.
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The MLA had defended himself saying he had given his property on rent and is not responsible for any activities there.