Muda case: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah’s untarnished image faces turbulence

BENGALURU: From humble beginnings of a cattle herder to a two-time chief minister, Siddaramaiah has come a long way. Over his four-decade political career, he carved a significant space in Karnataka's politics, becoming only the second chief minister, after Devaraj Urs (1972-77), to complete a full five-year term.
Much of that success was attributed to his efforts to consolidate Ahinda (Kannada acronym for minorities, backward classes, and Dalits) votes and his untarnished image.That blemish-free image has now taken a severe hit with the Karnataka high court ruling that he must be investigated for alleged corruption in securing Muda site allotments. The verdict has cast a shadow on Siddaramaiah's credibility, one that was painstakingly built by championing causes such as social justice and inclusivity.
While the case is far from over, the verdict poses a significant threat to his public standing. Potential damage to his reputation could not only impact his leadership but also raise concerns about the future of Karnataka Congress, which returned to power in 2023 with Siddaramaiah as the face of the party.
Siddaramaiah, who began his political journey influenced by Dr Ram Manohar Lohia, a prominent figure of socialist movement, was initially spotted by Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha leader Prof MD Nanjundaswamy. Encouraged to enter politics, he contested and won the 1983 MLA election from Chamundeshwari on a Bharatiya Lok Dal ticket, gaining instant fame in the Old Mysore region.
Siddaramaiah later joined the Janata Party and became the first president of Kannada Surveillance Committee, tasked with implementing Kannada as the official language. His political career had its share of ups and downs, including a defeat in 1989, but he made a strong comeback in 1994 as the finance minister in the Janata Dal govt. He holds a record for presenting 15 state budgets.
After leaving JD(S) and shelving plans for a regional party, Siddaramaiah joined Congress in 2006, and the party secured two thumping victories — in 2013 and 2023 — under his leadership.
Now, a little over a year into his second stint as CM, the high court's ruling has cast a shadow on his career. Although Siddaramaiah has expressed readiness to face an investigation and clear his name, the controversy could have lasting effects.
"This situation is concerning for Congress party. The public's faith in our leadership is crucial, and we cannot afford to lose that," said a senior Congress functionary.
His popularity within Congress remains undiminished, as was apparent when several ministers, and senior functionaries rallied in his support immediately after the verdict. "Siddaramaiah has always been a fighter; we believe he will overcome this challenge," another senior party functionary said.
But a long-drawn legal fight could shift focus away from his govt's efforts and achievements in the coming days.