Governor Bhardwaj allows prosecution of Karnataka CM Yeddyurappa

Karnataka governor HR Bhardwaj today granted prermission to two Bangalore-based advocates for filing criminal cases against chief minister BS Yeddyurappa over "allegations of corruption and criminal misconduct," much against the wishes of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.

The governor's move follows a state cabinet resolution which cast doubts on Bhardwaj being 'fair and judicious' in his decision.

Karnataka Lok Ayukta Santosh Hegde also supported the governor's move, stating that he was within his powers to do so.

Bangalore-based advocates, Sirajin Bashan and KN Balaraj had, on 28 December, had sought permission to launch criminal proceedings against the Karnataka CM for alleged favours to his kin in the allocation of prime land in and around Bengalooru, the state capital.

Bhardwaj said the advocate duo had sought his permission "under section 19(1) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 and section 197 of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973" for prosecuting Yeddyurappa "for various grave allegations of corruption and criminal misconduct".

The governor passed an order this evening granting sanction to prosecute chief minister Yeddyurappa, the governor's office said in a release.