Karnataka Withdraws General Consent for CBI Investigations

The Karnataka government has revoked the general consent previously granted to the CBI for probing cases in the state. The decision, announced by Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil, is based on concerns over misuse of central investigation agencies by the central government.

The Karnataka government on Thursday decided to withdraw general consent granted to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to investigate cases within the state.

Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil said, "The notification granting general consent for CBI to probe criminal cases in Karnataka state, under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946, has been withdrawn," following a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Under Section 6 of the DSPE Act, 1946, the CBI requires consent from state governments for investigations within their jurisdiction. Patil stated the withdrawal is due to the misuse of investigative powers by the central agencies. Specific consent will now be required on a case-by-case basis.

(With inputs from agencies.)