Mysore/Mysuru: Accusing BJP leader Dr. Shushrutha Gowda of making irresponsible and baseless remarks against Chamaraja Congress MLA K. Harishgowda, City Congress Spokesperson S. Rajesh said that the MLA had merely directed officials to take stringent action against attempts to grab prime land belonging to the Kuvempu Vidyavardhaka Trust in Jayalakshmipuram.

Addressing a press meet on Sunday, Rajesh said that the MLA’s firm stand on protecting the land had proved to be a “hard pill to swallow” for Dr. Shushrutha Gowda.

Rajesh said that the khata of 10 acres of prime land adjacent to the Kuvempu Vidyavardhaka Trust, falling under Hinkal Survey No. 155, was hurriedly transferred in the names of a few individuals. The irregularity was reported in Mysuru Mithra, sister concern of Star of Mysore, in 2024.

“Following the report, two Revenue officials of the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) were suspended, and it also came to light that a large land mafia was behind the deal. Subsequently, Chamaraja MLA Harishgowda demanded that the MCC Commissioner and the Deputy Commissioner cancel the khata,” Rajesh said.

He further alleged that, in the meantime, Dr. Shushrutha Gowda had illegally entered into a deed relating to possession of the said land. “When the MLA raised questions over the illegality,                                                             Dr. Shushrutha Gowda began making baseless allegations against him,” Rajesh claimed.

Demanding the immediate arrest of Dr. Shushrutha Gowda for the alleged illegalities related to the land, Rajesh warned that the Congress would launch a massive agitation if no action was taken.

Rejecting allegations that Harishgowda had done little for the Constituency, Rajesh said Chamaraja was the most developed Assembly segment in the city. He claimed that the MLA had secured grants worth Rs. 800 crore for the Constituency within a short span of two years.

Congress leaders Dr. Nagaraj, Venkatesh, Siddaiah, Praveen, Ramu and Rajkumar were present at the press meet.

‘Dispute is sub judice’

Reacting to the remarks made by the Congress Spokesperson, BJP leader Dr. Shushrutha Gowda said that his Advocate, O. Sham Bhat, had already provided all clarifications regarding the 10 acres of land under Hinkal Survey No. 155 at a press meet held on Sept. 22, 2024.

Pointing out that the matter is currently before the Court, Dr. Gowda said, a ruling is yet to be delivered. He maintained that since the issue is sub judice, no individual or organisation has the right to make prejudicial comments or issue misleading statements.

He cautioned that such actions would amount to Contempt of Court and could also invite defamation proceedings. Emphasising that all parties must abide by the Court’s decision, Dr. Gowda said, statements should strictly remain within the purview of the law.

He further warned that legal action would be initiated against anyone making defamatory or damaging statements.