Karnataka withdraws notification giving CBI unrestricted permission for probe

The Karnataka government on Friday withdrew open consent to the CBI to conduct inquiries within its territory. Law Minister HK Patil said the state wished to flag "biased" actions of CBI - which the opposition claims is ordered by the BJP to target its leaders, particularly before elections - and ruled out any link to land scam allegations facing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

"We are withdrawing open consent for CBI investigation in the state. We are expressing our concerns about the misuse of the agency. They are biased... that is why are taking this decision."

"This is not because of MUDA..." Mr Patil told reporters.

"In all cases we have referred to the CBI, they have not filed chargesheets... leaving many cases pending. They also refused to investigate cases we sent. There are numerous such instances."