The Karnataka Congress government has ignited a political controversy with the transfer of Mysuru Deputy Commissioner (DC) KV Rajendra. Known for his whistleblower efforts, Rajendra exposed alleged irregularities in the allotment of alternative plots by the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) under a 50:50 scheme.
This transfer has raised significant concerns, especially as it involves Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his wife Parvathi.
Rajendra has been appointed as the new Director of Tourism in Bengaluru, and senior IAS officer G Lakshmikanth Reddy will replace him as the Mysuru DC.
While the government issued transfer orders for 21 senior IAS officers on Friday, Rajendra’s reassignment stands out in the light of the ongoing allegations.
Rajendra’s actions as a whistleblower included writing multiple letters to MUDA and the government, calling for the cancellation of the controversial allotments. He cited numerous rule violations, but his efforts were seemingly ignored as both the Urban Development Department and MUDA authorities proceeded with the allotments.
The political uproar intensified with BJP leader R Ashoka’s allegations. Ashoka claimed that Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh removed files related to the allotments, involving the CM and his wife, from the MUDA office and took them to Bengaluru in an attempt to cover up the case.
The transfer of Rajendra, coupled with these serious allegations, has cast a spotlight on the integrity and transparency of the current administration. The situation continues to unfold as political leaders and the public seek answers and accountability from those involved.