Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court on Friday stayed the ACB (Anti-Corruption Bureau) investigation into two FIRs filed against former Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa in connection with denotifcation of 257 acres of land for forming Dr. Shivarama Karanth Layout in Bengaluru North.

Justice Aravind Kumar granted the interim prayer sought by Yeddyurappa negating the contentions put forth by the ACB. The first FIR pertains to land acquired in Avalahalli while the second is with regard to land acquired in Somashettihalli.

Justice Aravind Kumar, who dictated the order for close to seven hours spread over 2 days, rejected all the contentions raised by the ACB while answering the issues framed by the Court.

Citing lack of proof to prove the case against Yeddyurappa, the Judge said the scheme to form the layout had lapsed as there was a delay of over 6 years and no final notification was issued.

‘The allegation that Yeddyurappa caused loss to the public exchequer prima facie looks to be a myth and conspicuously absent,’ the court said.

‘Allowing the ACB to investigate the case without concrete evidence would be prejudiced against the petitioner’s rights. Hence the interim prayer to stay the investigation is granted,’ the court further said.