Bengaluru: Karnataka Lokayukta has served a notice to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, asking him to submit documents regarding the Disproportionate Assets (DA) case for investigation.
"There has been a CBI case against you. The case has been transferred to the Lokayukta. During the CBI investigation, you have submitted information and documents. Do submit the same documents and information to Lokayukta too," the notice stated.
Shivakumar is accused of amassing wealth to the tune of Rs 74.93 crore which is disproportionate to his income. Meanwhile, he has denied any wrongdoings and stated that he would fight the case legally.
With the State Lokayukta seeking documents from him, Shivakumar faces increased scrutiny and pressure to defend himself against the allegations.
The withdrawal of permission for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe the matter, previously granted by the Congress government, has been a contentious move. It contrasts with the decision of the former BJP government to hand over the case to the CBI.
The recent quashing of the case probed by the Enforcement Directorate against Shivakumar by the Supreme Court might have provided temporary relief. However, with the DA case still looming and the Lokayukta's notice, the legal battle is far from over for Shivakumar.
The allegations of a disproportionate increase in assets by nearly 45 per cent between 2013 and 2018, as claimed by the CBI, paint a troubling picture. Shivakumar's assertions of harassment by central probe agencies despite the quashing of the case further complicates the narrative.
As Shivakumar juggles his responsibilities as Deputy Chief Minister and Congress President in Karnataka alongside election campaigns, navigating through these legal challenges will undoubtedly demand considerable time and attention.
