The son of former CM HD Kumaraswamy, Nikhil and grand niece of ex-Congress minister M Krishnappa, Revathi got married on Thursday in Karnataka's Ramnagar.

Before the marriage, sources said that the wedding will remain a low-key affair with the presence of limited guests and all safety precautions would be taken to avoid spread of novel coronavirus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kannada-actor-nikhil-gowda-to-marry-revathi-on-april-17-292923">Kannada actor Nikhil Gowda to marry Revathi on April 17</a>

However, in a video, it was seen that the limited guests were standing close to each other with dozens of cameramen surrounding the couple.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Twitterati is once again divided over whether the wedding should have taken place or not.&nbsp;

While many people are furious about why permissions were granted to powerful families in times of COVID-19, others congratulated the couple for the wedding.&nbsp;

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So the VIP wedding is on despite <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lockdown</a> 
 
I wish the couple &amp; all attendees a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid_19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid_19</a> free life ahead 🙏🏼 
 
Now with media blockade from venue let's hope <a href="https://twitter.com/hd_kumaraswamy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hd_kumaraswamy</a> keeps up his word of "just a family affair" <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nikhilkumaraswamy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nikhilkumaraswamy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIPSCovidStories?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIPSCovidStories</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LockdownExtended?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LockdownExtended</a> <a href="https://t.co/o6C5mONITQ">pic.twitter.com/o6C5mONITQ</a>
— Deepak Bopanna (@dpkBopanna) <a href="https://twitter.com/dpkBopanna/status/1250985091301437440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Jaldi kya thi shaadi karne ki I wonder.. 
I mean you have money - you couldve thrown a lavish wedding after 6 months - not like Nikhil is getting old.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nikhilkumaraswamy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nikhilkumaraswamy</a>
— Prachi (@mechiemaata) <a href="https://twitter.com/mechiemaata/status/1251015402194272257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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48 cars permission for marriage....<a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BSYBJP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BSYBJP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> is this lockdown? Middle and low middle class members are suffering lockdown and bjp karnataka govt is playing politics <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nikhilkumaraswamy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nikhilkumaraswamy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCOVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCOVID19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/INCKarnataka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCKarnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/DdSdDiV6wF">https://t.co/DdSdDiV6wF</a>
— Naveen V (@NaveenV1984) <a href="https://twitter.com/NaveenV1984/status/1251024549514076161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Happy Married Life ❣️♥️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nikhilkumaraswamy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nikhilkumaraswamy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Revathi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Revathi</a> <a href="https://t.co/SKOXlgpC8S">pic.twitter.com/SKOXlgpC8S</a>
— Nikhil Kumar Fc (@NikhilKumarFc) <a href="https://twitter.com/NikhilKumarFc/status/1251024797724626944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Thank God for the lockdown, we are spared from Kannada channels live streaming <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NikhilKumaraswamy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NikhilKumaraswamy</a>'s wedding! 
Also, best wishes to the newly-weds. 😉😉
— Akshay Patil (@akshayhoy) <a href="https://twitter.com/akshayhoy/status/1250988847250337792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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RIP Social distancing <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nikhilkumaraswamy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nikhilkumaraswamy</a> <a href="https://t.co/pjk3DNGhG6">https://t.co/pjk3DNGhG6</a>
— Raj (@raajcar) <a href="https://twitter.com/raajcar/status/1251030057302192130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Hope will maintain low profile &amp; within family as people cannot move in lockdown. Generally people do not marry in summers unless there are some desperate ones. Nevertheless, these are family matters &amp; people opinions do not matter in such cases &amp; nor should be <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nikhilkumaraswamy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nikhilkumaraswamy</a>
— Vijay Chauhan (@Vijay_agneepath) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vijay_agneepath/status/1251031945879842816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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According to the data by Ministery of Health, there are 315 people who tested coronavirus positive, out of which 13 died.&nbsp;

Earlier, Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa allowed closed-door weddings with guests less than 100 in the state in an order released on March 22.&nbsp;

Both the political families were planning a grand wedding, but due to the coronavirus outbreak, it was decided that the ceremony would remain a modest affair as they didn't want to extend the date.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The son of former CM HD Kumaraswamy, Nikhil and grand niece of ex-Congress minister M Krishnappa, Revathi got married on Thursday in Karnataka's Ramnagar. Before the marriage, sources said that the wedding will remain a low-key affair with the presence of limited guests and all safety precautions would be taken to avoid spread of novel coronavirus.

The son of former CM HD Kumaraswamy, Nikhil and grand niece of ex-Congress minister M Krishnappa, Revathi got married on Thursday in Karnataka's Ramnagar. Before the marriage, sources said that the wedding will remain a low-key affair with the presence of limited guests and all safety precautions would be taken to avoid spread of novel coronavirus. Also read | Kannada actor Nikhil Gowda to marry Revathi on April 17 However, in a video, it was seen that the limited guests were standing close to each other with dozens of cameramen surrounding the couple. Twitterati is once again divided over whether the wedding should have taken place or not. While many people are furious about why permissions were granted to powerful families in times of COVID-19, others congratulated the couple for the wedding. So the VIP wedding is on despite #lockdown I wish the couple & all attendees a #Covid_19 free life ahead 🙏🏼 Now with media blockade from venue let's hope @hd_kumaraswamy keeps up his word of "just a family affair" #Nikhilkumaraswamy #VIPSCovidStories #LockdownExtended pic.twitter.com/o6C5mONITQ — Deepak Bopanna (@dpkBopanna) April 17, 2020 × Jaldi kya thi shaadi karne ki I wonder.. I mean you have money - you couldve thrown a lavish wedding after 6 months - not like Nikhil is getting old.#Nikhilkumaraswamy — Prachi (@mechiemaata) April 17, 2020 × 48 cars permission for marriage....@PMOIndia @narendramodi @BSYBJP @AmitShah is this lockdown? Middle and low middle class members are suffering lockdown and bjp karnataka govt is playing politics #Nikhilkumaraswamy #IndiaFightsCOVID19 @RahulGandhi @INCKarnataka https://t.co/DdSdDiV6wF — Naveen V (@NaveenV1984) April 17, 2020 × Happy Married Life ❣️♥️#Nikhilkumaraswamy #Revathi pic.twitter.com/SKOXlgpC8S — Nikhil Kumar Fc (@NikhilKumarFc) April 17, 2020 × Thank God for the lockdown, we are spared from Kannada channels live streaming #NikhilKumaraswamy's wedding! Also, best wishes to the newly-weds. 😉😉 — Akshay Patil (@akshayhoy) April 17, 2020 × RIP Social distancing #Nikhilkumaraswamy https://t.co/pjk3DNGhG6 — Raj (@raajcar) April 17, 2020 × Hope will maintain low profile & within family as people cannot move in lockdown. Generally people do not marry in summers unless there are some desperate ones. Nevertheless, these are family matters & people opinions do not matter in such cases & nor should be #Nikhilkumaraswamy — Vijay Chauhan (@Vijay_agneepath) April 17, 2020 × According to the data by Ministery of Health, there are 315 people who tested coronavirus positive, out of which 13 died. Earlier, Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa allowed closed-door weddings with guests less than 100 in the state in an order released on March 22. Both the political families were planning a grand wedding, but due to the coronavirus outbreak, it was decided that the ceremony would remain a modest affair as they didn't want to extend the date.

Some furious, others congratulate: Netizens react to marriage of Kumaraswamy's son during coronavirus lockdown

A day after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-upholds-disqualification-of-rebel-mlas-permits-them-to-contest-bypolls-261738">Supreme Court</a> permitted the disqualified Congress and JD(S) MLAs to contest the impending&nbsp; Karnataka bypolls on December 5, the Bharatiya Janata Party has released an official statement mentioning that 16 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in the state are all set to join the ruling&nbsp;BJP on Thursday, which excludes the name of&nbsp;Roshan Baig.

On Wednesday, sources shared that the BJP is open to the prospect of fielding all 17 disqualified Karnataka MLAs for the upcoming bypolls in the state. The top leadership, including chief Amit Shah and working president JP Nadda, have given their go-ahead for fielding the disqualified MLAs from their erstwhile seats, sources said.

The decision was reportedly taken at a high-level meeting held today, in which senior state leaders were also present. The by-polls in the state will be held on 15 out of the 17 seats on December 5. According to sources,&nbsp;Roshan Baig's name could not be included in BJP till he gets a clean chit in IMA Ponzi scam.

In the Karnataka elections, BJP had emerged as the largest party with 105 seats but failed to secure a majority in the 225-members assembly. The party is expecting that the by-polls on the 15 seats will boost their tally in the state. The 14-month old Congress-JD(S) coalition government, led by Kumaraswamy collapsed in July this year following a series of resignations from MLAs paving way for the BJP, which was the single largest party to form the government in Karnataka.

 
&nbsp;

A day after the Supreme Court permitted the disqualified Congress and JD(S) MLAs to contest the impending Karnataka bypolls on December 5, the Bharatiya Janata Party has released an official statement mentioning that 16 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in the state are all set to join the ruling BJP on Thursday, which excludes the name of Roshan Baig.

A day after the Supreme Court permitted the disqualified Congress and JD(S) MLAs to contest the impending Karnataka bypolls on December 5, the Bharatiya Janata Party has released an official statement mentioning that 16 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in the state are all set to join the ruling BJP on Thursday, which excludes the name of Roshan Baig. On Wednesday, sources shared that the BJP is open to the prospect of fielding all 17 disqualified Karnataka MLAs for the upcoming bypolls in the state. The top leadership, including chief Amit Shah and working president JP Nadda, have given their go-ahead for fielding the disqualified MLAs from their erstwhile seats, sources said. The decision was reportedly taken at a high-level meeting held today, in which senior state leaders were also present. The by-polls in the state will be held on 15 out of the 17 seats on December 5. According to sources, Roshan Baig's name could not be included in BJP till he gets a clean chit in IMA Ponzi scam. In the Karnataka elections, BJP had emerged as the largest party with 105 seats but failed to secure a majority in the 225-members assembly. The party is expecting that the by-polls on the 15 seats will boost their tally in the state. The 14-month old Congress-JD(S) coalition government, led by Kumaraswamy collapsed in July this year following a series of resignations from MLAs paving way for the BJP, which was the single largest party to form the government in Karnataka.

BJP says Karnataka's 16 disqualified MLAs set to join party

It’s done and dusted. The trust vote in Karnataka, which was being delayed by the ruling coalition, on some pretext or the other, finally took place on July 23.

As expected, H.D. Kumaraswamy lost the vote of confidence 99 to 105. While the BJP hailed it as a ‘game of karma’, Congress and JD(S) blamed BJP for horse-trading and carrying out Operation Kamala 2.0. The trend of no-coalition government lasting a full term has been maintained.&nbsp;

The JD(S)-Congress government lasted 14 months. It had been formed to keep the BJP out of power. The people had rejected the alliance in the polls, but they formed an opportunistic alliance against the popular mandate.

The JD(S) and Congress have opposed each other tooth and nail for decades in state politics. About 60 per cent&nbsp;of JD(S) MLAs (22 out of 37) defeated Congress candidates in the assembly polls.&nbsp;

People voted against the Congress in 144 seats (104 BJP, 37 JD(S), 2 Independents, 1 BSP). Rahul Gandhi referred to JD(S) as Janata Dal Sangh Parivar during his poll campaign. Deve Gowda called Rahul and Siddaramaiah “hypocrites who had once dined with the same Gowdas”.&nbsp;

While the Congress tally declined by 36% from 122 to 78, BJP’s more than doubled from 50 to 104. BJP gained seats across all regions vis-à-vis 2013 (except Bengaluru), while the Congress lost seats. Sixteen ministers of the Siddaramaiah government lost elections. The chief minister lost the Chamundeshwari seat by a big margin of 36,000 votes to JD(S) candidate. He just managed to scrape through on the other seat, Badami, where he won by mere 1,700 votes. Clearly the mandate was against the Congress and in favour of the BJP. The inherent contradictions of the alliance were too hot for Kumaraswamy to handle. The role of Siddaramaiah, who doesn’t share a great rapport with the Gowda family, is also being questioned. Many rebel MLAs belong to his camp. It is rumoured that he was not in favour of the alliance and playing second fiddle to Kumaraswamy.&nbsp;

Many Congressmen in hushed tones blamed the alliance with JD(S) for performing poorly in the Lok Sabha elections and were not in favour of continuing with it. &nbsp;&nbsp;

There are three options before the Governor: (i) inviting BJP to form the government, (ii) keeping the house in suspended animation (President’s Rule) for some time and later explore options (iii) ordering fresh polls.&nbsp;

However, he is likely to go with the first option and rightly so as the original mandate was pro-BJP. Re-elections would lead to significant expenditure at the cost of taxpayers.

The BJP, after its record performance in Lok Sabha polls, where it won 25 out of 28 seats, might have been tempted to go for fresh elections. BJP was leading in 169 out of 224 assembly constituencies, as per Lok Sabha trends.&nbsp;

Even after discounting the national elections, the Modi factor of 20%, BJP would still end up with 130+ seats, as per any safe calculation. This would have eliminated the dependence of BJP on rebel MLAs.

However, all MLAs would not have been happy at the prospect of facing the people again in just over a year’s time. Also, BJP strongman BS Yeddyurrapa wouldn’t have liked it either. He played a crucial role in BJP’s Lok Sabha performance and has waited patiently for his turn. The influential Lingayat leader is credited with the installation of the first BJP government in south India.&nbsp;

The track record of the earlier Yeddyurappa government suggests it won’t be easy for the BJP. Managing the aspirations of rebels as well as 30 odd ex-ministers in the BJP legislative party will require deft handling. Many MLAs in Karnataka have a history of hopping from one party to another, regardless of ideology for the sake of power. The party also needs to instal a Speaker of their choice.&nbsp;

BSY, at 76, is above the threshold limit of the party. The BJP needs to find a substitute soon under whom it would contest the 2023 polls. BJP adds another state in its kitty. However, it’s not going to be smooth sailing. Restoring the collapsed governance structure should be the top priority of Yeddyurappa, but whether he gets time from party politics remains to be seen.&nbsp; 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-another-opportunistic-alliance-in-karnataka-comes-to-an-end-2775444">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

It’s done and dusted. The trust vote in Karnataka, which was being delayed by the ruling coalition, on some pretext or the other, finally took place on July 23. As expected, H.

It’s done and dusted. The trust vote in Karnataka, which was being delayed by the ruling coalition, on some pretext or the other, finally took place on July 23. As expected, H.D. Kumaraswamy lost the vote of confidence 99 to 105. While the BJP hailed it as a ‘game of karma’, Congress and JD(S) blamed BJP for horse-trading and carrying out Operation Kamala 2.0. The trend of no-coalition government lasting a full term has been maintained. The JD(S)-Congress government lasted 14 months. It had been formed to keep the BJP out of power. The people had rejected the alliance in the polls, but they formed an opportunistic alliance against the popular mandate. The JD(S) and Congress have opposed each other tooth and nail for decades in state politics. About 60 per cent of JD(S) MLAs (22 out of 37) defeated Congress candidates in the assembly polls. People voted against the Congress in 144 seats (104 BJP, 37 JD(S), 2 Independents, 1 BSP). Rahul Gandhi referred to JD(S) as Janata Dal Sangh Parivar during his poll campaign. Deve Gowda called Rahul and Siddaramaiah “hypocrites who had once dined with the same Gowdas”. While the Congress tally declined by 36% from 122 to 78, BJP’s more than doubled from 50 to 104. BJP gained seats across all regions vis-à-vis 2013 (except Bengaluru), while the Congress lost seats. Sixteen ministers of the Siddaramaiah government lost elections. The chief minister lost the Chamundeshwari seat by a big margin of 36,000 votes to JD(S) candidate. He just managed to scrape through on the other seat, Badami, where he won by mere 1,700 votes. Clearly the mandate was against the Congress and in favour of the BJP. The inherent contradictions of the alliance were too hot for Kumaraswamy to handle. The role of Siddaramaiah, who doesn’t share a great rapport with the Gowda family, is also being questioned. Many rebel MLAs belong to his camp. It is rumoured that he was not in favour of the alliance and playing second fiddle to Kumaraswamy. Many Congressmen in hushed tones blamed the alliance with JD(S) for performing poorly in the Lok Sabha elections and were not in favour of continuing with it. There are three options before the Governor: (i) inviting BJP to form the government, (ii) keeping the house in suspended animation (President’s Rule) for some time and later explore options (iii) ordering fresh polls. However, he is likely to go with the first option and rightly so as the original mandate was pro-BJP. Re-elections would lead to significant expenditure at the cost of taxpayers. The BJP, after its record performance in Lok Sabha polls, where it won 25 out of 28 seats, might have been tempted to go for fresh elections. BJP was leading in 169 out of 224 assembly constituencies, as per Lok Sabha trends. Even after discounting the national elections, the Modi factor of 20%, BJP would still end up with 130+ seats, as per any safe calculation. This would have eliminated the dependence of BJP on rebel MLAs. However, all MLAs would not have been happy at the prospect of facing the people again in just over a year’s time. Also, BJP strongman BS Yeddyurrapa wouldn’t have liked it either. He played a crucial role in BJP’s Lok Sabha performance and has waited patiently for his turn. The influential Lingayat leader is credited with the installation of the first BJP government in south India. The track record of the earlier Yeddyurappa government suggests it won’t be easy for the BJP. Managing the aspirations of rebels as well as 30 odd ex-ministers in the BJP legislative party will require deft handling. Many MLAs in Karnataka have a history of hopping from one party to another, regardless of ideology for the sake of power. The party also needs to instal a Speaker of their choice. BSY, at 76, is above the threshold limit of the party. The BJP needs to find a substitute soon under whom it would contest the 2023 polls. BJP adds another state in its kitty. However, it’s not going to be smooth sailing. Restoring the collapsed governance structure should be the top priority of Yeddyurappa, but whether he gets time from party politics remains to be seen. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Another opportunistic alliance in Karnataka comes to an end

The Supreme Court on Thursday allowed two Independent Karnataka MLAs to withdraw their petition with respect to the floor test in the Assembly after the Congress-JD(S) government lost the trust vote.

&nbsp;A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi passed the order after the lawmakers -- H Nagesh and R Shankar -- pleaded to withdraw it. In the petition, the duo, who had earlier withdrew their support to the Congress-JD (S) government in Karnataka, sought a direction to conclude the floor test in the state Assembly.&nbsp;

The legislators had made Karnataka Assembly Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar, outgoing Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, and the central government respondents in their petition.&nbsp;

Senior advocate Rajeev Dhavan, representing Kumaraswamy, told the apex court that he has no objection to the withdrawal of the petition. During the course of proceeding, the Chief Justice pulled up Mukul Rohatgi, the counsel for the rebel lawmakers, for his absence from the courtroom for the second consecutive day.&nbsp;

The top court had adjourned the matter over his absence, yesterday. "When the court wants counsel to be present, he is not present. But, when he wants an urgent listing he is present 11pm, wants midnight hearing at 2am, 3am and what not...," the court said.&nbsp;

The Congress-JD(S) coalition government fell on Tuesday as it lost the trust vote in the Assembly. Following the defeat, Kumaraswamy submitted his resignation to Governor Vajubhai Vala at Raj Bhavan, along with his cabinet ministers.&nbsp;

The defeat marked the end of an uneasy coalition that was formed after the assembly polls on May 23, 2018, which returned a hung verdict after three main parties in the state- Congress, BJP and the JD (S) contested against each other in the polls.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Thursday allowed two Independent Karnataka MLAs to withdraw their petition with respect to the floor test in the Assembly after the Congress-JD(S) government lost the trust vote.

The Supreme Court on Thursday allowed two Independent Karnataka MLAs to withdraw their petition with respect to the floor test in the Assembly after the Congress-JD(S) government lost the trust vote. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi passed the order after the lawmakers -- H Nagesh and R Shankar -- pleaded to withdraw it. In the petition, the duo, who had earlier withdrew their support to the Congress-JD (S) government in Karnataka, sought a direction to conclude the floor test in the state Assembly. The legislators had made Karnataka Assembly Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar, outgoing Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, and the central government respondents in their petition. Senior advocate Rajeev Dhavan, representing Kumaraswamy, told the apex court that he has no objection to the withdrawal of the petition. During the course of proceeding, the Chief Justice pulled up Mukul Rohatgi, the counsel for the rebel lawmakers, for his absence from the courtroom for the second consecutive day. The top court had adjourned the matter over his absence, yesterday. "When the court wants counsel to be present, he is not present. But, when he wants an urgent listing he is present 11pm, wants midnight hearing at 2am, 3am and what not...," the court said. The Congress-JD(S) coalition government fell on Tuesday as it lost the trust vote in the Assembly. Following the defeat, Kumaraswamy submitted his resignation to Governor Vajubhai Vala at Raj Bhavan, along with his cabinet ministers. The defeat marked the end of an uneasy coalition that was formed after the assembly polls on May 23, 2018, which returned a hung verdict after three main parties in the state- Congress, BJP and the JD (S) contested against each other in the polls.

Supreme Court allows Karnataka Independent MLAs to withdraw petition on trust vote

A day after outgoing&nbsp;Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-kumaraswamys-congress-jds-government-loses-floor-test-in-karnataka-assembly-237989"> failed to prove the majority</a> of Congress-JD(S) government in the Assembly, JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda on Wednesday&nbsp;alleged that he hasn't seen this kind of horse-trading before.

"The way in which things have happened in Karnataka, I have never seen in my political career. The way in which a national party, BJP leadership allowed this type of horse-trading, I have never seen in my life," he said.

Deve Gowda also said that he doesn't blame anyone, from Congress or JD(S), for the failure of the coalition government in Karnataka.

"There is no difference of opinion between the two parties, Congress &amp; Janata Dal (Secular), one is a national party, another is a regional party. We have no regret of having the last coalition govt. We are not accusing anyone, including the former Chief Minister &amp; other senior ministers," he added.

The 14-month-old Congress JD(S) coalition government in Karnataka fell on Tuesday after it was defeated on the floor of the Karnataka Assembly with about 20 MLAs of the ruling coalition defying their party whips and absenting from voting on the confidence motion.

The coalition got 99 votes as against 105 of the opposition. 
 
(With inputs from ANI)

A day after outgoing Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy failed to prove the majority of Congress-JD(S) government in the Assembly, JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda on Wednesday alleged that he hasn't seen this kind of horse-trading before.

A day after outgoing Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy failed to prove the majority of Congress-JD(S) government in the Assembly, JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda on Wednesday alleged that he hasn't seen this kind of horse-trading before. "The way in which things have happened in Karnataka, I have never seen in my political career. The way in which a national party, BJP leadership allowed this type of horse-trading, I have never seen in my life," he said. Deve Gowda also said that he doesn't blame anyone, from Congress or JD(S), for the failure of the coalition government in Karnataka. "There is no difference of opinion between the two parties, Congress & Janata Dal (Secular), one is a national party, another is a regional party. We have no regret of having the last coalition govt. We are not accusing anyone, including the former Chief Minister & other senior ministers," he added. The 14-month-old Congress JD(S) coalition government in Karnataka fell on Tuesday after it was defeated on the floor of the Karnataka Assembly with about 20 MLAs of the ruling coalition defying their party whips and absenting from voting on the confidence motion. The coalition got 99 votes as against 105 of the opposition. (With inputs from ANI)

No differences with Congress, says JD(S) chief Deve Gowda after trust vote defeat

Amidst the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-assembly-fails-to-meet-governors-deadline-trust-vote-likely-on-monday-237191">din in the Karnataka Assembly</a>, the coalition government in the state managed to extend its life by another day as it presented more arguments before the speaker. Despite two deadlines from the Governor to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-governor-issues-new-deadline-to-cm-kumaraswamy-for-floor-test-congress-moves-supreme-court-237114">complete the trust vote by 1.30 pm</a> and then by the end of the day, the session concluded with a noisy adjournment. The session is now set to resume only on Monday at 11 am.&nbsp;

Adding to the debate over the negation of the whip by the Supreme Court order, members questioned the Governor's move to order a floor test when a confidence motion is already in progress. "In the SR Bommai case, the SC said that the Governor can ask for a trust vote and that a week's time can be given. However, today's situation is different. If he asked for the vote then he (Governor) can give a time limit but here the Chief Minister has moved a confidence motion and the House is discussing it. The discussion is the property of the House and the Speaker is overseeing this. When this is happening, I ask you if such a recommendation can be accepted by infringing on our rights" questioned Krishna Byre Gowda, Congress leader.&nbsp;

Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy also filed a fresh petition in the Supreme Court questioning the Governor's order when a confidence motion was a progress in the House. "We have already moved the confidence motion. I request the Speaker to decide on whether the Governor can direct me to hold the floor test today," said the Chief Minister while speaking in the House.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Karnataka Congress President Dinesh Gundu Rao also moved the Supreme Court seeking clarity on its order delivered on Wednesday. In the petition, Rao states that the order nullifies the party whip as it has allowed the rebel MLAs to decide if they want to attend the session or not. This, as Rao stated, violates the party's rights under the Tenth Schedule.&nbsp;

While the coalition employed all tactics to delay the trust vote, the BJP insisted on the vote to conclude on Friday. "I appeal to you (Speaker). The Governor has asked CM to prove majority today. We are ready to stay till midnight. We will co-operate. I appeal to the CM also to respect the Governor's order" said BS Yeddyurappa, BJP State President right before the Assembly was adjourned.&nbsp;

As the coalition buys more time in a bid to reinstate the power of the whip that can help initiate disqualification proceedings against the missing MLAs, the Speaker is consulting the Advocate General on the next step of action. But by no means will this be a silent weekend in BJP'S south bastion. All eyes will be on the Raj Bhavan keenly watching the Governor's next move. Will the Governor wait till Monday or will he start setting the stage to propose President's rule for Karnataka? 
&nbsp;

Amidst the din in the Karnataka Assembly, the coalition government in the state managed to extend its life by another day as it presented more arguments before the speaker.

Amidst the din in the Karnataka Assembly, the coalition government in the state managed to extend its life by another day as it presented more arguments before the speaker. Despite two deadlines from the Governor to complete the trust vote by 1.30 pm and then by the end of the day, the session concluded with a noisy adjournment. The session is now set to resume only on Monday at 11 am. Adding to the debate over the negation of the whip by the Supreme Court order, members questioned the Governor's move to order a floor test when a confidence motion is already in progress. "In the SR Bommai case, the SC said that the Governor can ask for a trust vote and that a week's time can be given. However, today's situation is different. If he asked for the vote then he (Governor) can give a time limit but here the Chief Minister has moved a confidence motion and the House is discussing it. The discussion is the property of the House and the Speaker is overseeing this. When this is happening, I ask you if such a recommendation can be accepted by infringing on our rights" questioned Krishna Byre Gowda, Congress leader. Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy also filed a fresh petition in the Supreme Court questioning the Governor's order when a confidence motion was a progress in the House. "We have already moved the confidence motion. I request the Speaker to decide on whether the Governor can direct me to hold the floor test today," said the Chief Minister while speaking in the House. Meanwhile, Karnataka Congress President Dinesh Gundu Rao also moved the Supreme Court seeking clarity on its order delivered on Wednesday. In the petition, Rao states that the order nullifies the party whip as it has allowed the rebel MLAs to decide if they want to attend the session or not. This, as Rao stated, violates the party's rights under the Tenth Schedule. While the coalition employed all tactics to delay the trust vote, the BJP insisted on the vote to conclude on Friday. "I appeal to you (Speaker). The Governor has asked CM to prove majority today. We are ready to stay till midnight. We will co-operate. I appeal to the CM also to respect the Governor's order" said BS Yeddyurappa, BJP State President right before the Assembly was adjourned. As the coalition buys more time in a bid to reinstate the power of the whip that can help initiate disqualification proceedings against the missing MLAs, the Speaker is consulting the Advocate General on the next step of action. But by no means will this be a silent weekend in BJP'S south bastion. All eyes will be on the Raj Bhavan keenly watching the Governor's next move. Will the Governor wait till Monday or will he start setting the stage to propose President's rule for Karnataka?

Karnataka crisis: Will Governor crack the whip?

Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala on Friday issued a new deadline to chief minister HD Kumaraswamy to hold the floor test to prove the majority of JD(S)-Congress government.

In a letter to the chief minister, he asked him to hold&nbsp;the floor test in the Assembly by 6pm today. 
 
On Thursday, Governor, in a letter to Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, asked him to hold the floor test by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-governor-asks-chief-minister-to-hold-floor-test-on-friday-as-congress-jds-delay-trust-vote-236984">1.30pm on Friday.</a>&nbsp;

An earlier letter to the Speaker by Governor to conduct the floor test by the end of Thursday was merely dismissed as a suggestion and not an order.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Congress has moved the Supreme Court saying that its July 17 order compromises party’s right to issue whip to its MLAs. 
 
The petition said the July 17 order was passed without even arraying the Congress Legislature Party which has 79 MLAs in the Assembly. It further said under the Tenth Schedule a political party has a constitutional right to issue a whip to its legislators. 
 
The court had ruled that 15 MLAs from the Congress and JD-S cannot be compelled to participate in the House proceedings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-crisis-chief-minister-hd-kumaraswamy-resumes-debate-as-trust-vote-deadline-nears-237056">Earlier in the day</a>, Speaker Ramesh Kumar said that the directive of the Governor is applied to the chief minister and he cannot be forced by any time constraint.

"Unless the discussion is complete, you cannot press for the division of votes for the floor test," said the Speaker.

"Governor's order has to be followed or not, it has to be decided by the chief minister because the letter was sent to him, so he has to decide," he further added.

Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-crisis-hd-kumaraswamy-moves-confidence-motion-to-prove-majority-of-jds-congress-government-236840">moved confidence motion</a> in the state Assembly at 11am on Thursday to prove the majority of his government amidst rebellion by a section of the lawmakers.

He claimed that the dissenting legislators had moved the apex court with the BJP's assistance."A situation has been created so that people lose trust in us. Without any discussion they have wanted a trust vote", Kumaraswamy said.

Senior Congress leader and former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah that a floor test in the House will not be appropriate until a clarification is attained on the Supreme Court order allowing freedom to the 15 rebel MLAs from participating in the House proceedings.

"If we go ahead with the confidence motion, if the whip is applicable and they (rebel MLAs) don't come to the house because of the SC order, it will be a big loss to the coalition government," he said.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders claimed JD(S)-Congress coalition was delaying the trust vote fearing imminent defeat due to lack of majority numbers. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala on Friday issued a new deadline to chief minister HD Kumaraswamy to hold the floor test to prove the majority of JD(S)-Congress government.

Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala on Friday issued a new deadline to chief minister HD Kumaraswamy to hold the floor test to prove the majority of JD(S)-Congress government. In a letter to the chief minister, he asked him to hold the floor test in the Assembly by 6pm today. On Thursday, Governor, in a letter to Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, asked him to hold the floor test by 1.30pm on Friday. An earlier letter to the Speaker by Governor to conduct the floor test by the end of Thursday was merely dismissed as a suggestion and not an order. Meanwhile, Congress has moved the Supreme Court saying that its July 17 order compromises party’s right to issue whip to its MLAs. The petition said the July 17 order was passed without even arraying the Congress Legislature Party which has 79 MLAs in the Assembly. It further said under the Tenth Schedule a political party has a constitutional right to issue a whip to its legislators. The court had ruled that 15 MLAs from the Congress and JD-S cannot be compelled to participate in the House proceedings. Earlier in the day, Speaker Ramesh Kumar said that the directive of the Governor is applied to the chief minister and he cannot be forced by any time constraint. "Unless the discussion is complete, you cannot press for the division of votes for the floor test," said the Speaker. "Governor's order has to be followed or not, it has to be decided by the chief minister because the letter was sent to him, so he has to decide," he further added. Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy moved confidence motion in the state Assembly at 11am on Thursday to prove the majority of his government amidst rebellion by a section of the lawmakers. He claimed that the dissenting legislators had moved the apex court with the BJP's assistance."A situation has been created so that people lose trust in us. Without any discussion they have wanted a trust vote", Kumaraswamy said. Senior Congress leader and former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah that a floor test in the House will not be appropriate until a clarification is attained on the Supreme Court order allowing freedom to the 15 rebel MLAs from participating in the House proceedings. "If we go ahead with the confidence motion, if the whip is applicable and they (rebel MLAs) don't come to the house because of the SC order, it will be a big loss to the coalition government," he said. Meanwhile, BJP leaders claimed JD(S)-Congress coalition was delaying the trust vote fearing imminent defeat due to lack of majority numbers. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka Governor issues new deadline to chief minister Kumaraswamy for floor test; Congress moves Supreme Court

The future of the ruling JD(S)-Congress coalition is likely to be decided on Friday even as the deadline set by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai ended at 1.30pm today. 
 
Speaker Ramesh Kumar said that the directive of the Governor is applied to the chief minister and he cannot be forced by any time constraint.

"Unless the discussion is complete, you cannot press for division of votes for the floor test," said the Speaker. 
 
"Governor's order has to be followed or not, it has to be decided by chief minister because the letter was sent to him, so he has to decide," he further added 
 
Earlier in the day, chief minister HD Kumaraswamy had asked the Speaker to decide on the floor test.

"We have already moved the confidence motion. I request the speaker to decide on whether the Governor can direct me to hold the floor test today," he said. 
 
Kumaraswamy asserted he would not misuse power to save his government. "Let's have discussion. You can still form government. Nothing urgent. You can do it on Monday or Tuesday also. I am not going to misuse power," Kumaraswamy told the BJP.

On Thursday, Governor, in a letter to Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, asked him to hold the floor test by 1.30pm on Friday. "Though a message as contemplated under Article 175(2) is sent to the Speaker, I am informed that the House is adjourned today i.e, 18-07-2019. Under these circumstances, I require you to prove your majority on the floor of the house on or before 1.30 pm tomorrow" stated the Governor's letter.&nbsp;

An earlier letter to the Speaker by Governor to&nbsp;conduct the floor test by the end of Thursday was merely dismissed as a suggestion and not an order.&nbsp;

Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy moved confidence motion in the state Assembly at 11 am on Thursday to prove the majority of his government amidst rebellion by a section of the lawmakers.

He claimed that the dissenting legislators had moved the apex court with the BJP's assistance."A situation has been created so that people lose trust in us. Without any discussion they have wanted a trust vote", Kumaraswamy said.

Senior Congress leader and former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah that a floor test in the House will not be appropriate until a clarification is attained on the Supreme Court order allowing freedom to the 15 rebel MLAs from participating in the House proceedings.

"If we go ahead with the confidence motion, if the whip is applicable and they (rebel MLAs) don't come to the house because of the SC order, it will be a big loss to the coalition government," he said.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders claimed JD(S)-Congress coalition was delaying the trust vote fearing imminent defeat due to lack of majority numbers.

BJP legislators staged a night-long sit-in at Vidhana Soudha, protesting against the Congress-JD(S) government dragging its feet on the trust vote.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The future of the ruling JD(S)-Congress coalition is likely to be decided on Friday even as the deadline set by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai ended at 1.30pm today.

The future of the ruling JD(S)-Congress coalition is likely to be decided on Friday even as the deadline set by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai ended at 1.30pm today. Speaker Ramesh Kumar said that the directive of the Governor is applied to the chief minister and he cannot be forced by any time constraint. "Unless the discussion is complete, you cannot press for division of votes for the floor test," said the Speaker. "Governor's order has to be followed or not, it has to be decided by chief minister because the letter was sent to him, so he has to decide," he further added Earlier in the day, chief minister HD Kumaraswamy had asked the Speaker to decide on the floor test. "We have already moved the confidence motion. I request the speaker to decide on whether the Governor can direct me to hold the floor test today," he said. Kumaraswamy asserted he would not misuse power to save his government. "Let's have discussion. You can still form government. Nothing urgent. You can do it on Monday or Tuesday also. I am not going to misuse power," Kumaraswamy told the BJP. On Thursday, Governor, in a letter to Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, asked him to hold the floor test by 1.30pm on Friday. "Though a message as contemplated under Article 175(2) is sent to the Speaker, I am informed that the House is adjourned today i.e, 18-07-2019. Under these circumstances, I require you to prove your majority on the floor of the house on or before 1.30 pm tomorrow" stated the Governor's letter. An earlier letter to the Speaker by Governor to conduct the floor test by the end of Thursday was merely dismissed as a suggestion and not an order. Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy moved confidence motion in the state Assembly at 11 am on Thursday to prove the majority of his government amidst rebellion by a section of the lawmakers. He claimed that the dissenting legislators had moved the apex court with the BJP's assistance."A situation has been created so that people lose trust in us. Without any discussion they have wanted a trust vote", Kumaraswamy said. Senior Congress leader and former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah that a floor test in the House will not be appropriate until a clarification is attained on the Supreme Court order allowing freedom to the 15 rebel MLAs from participating in the House proceedings. "If we go ahead with the confidence motion, if the whip is applicable and they (rebel MLAs) don't come to the house because of the SC order, it will be a big loss to the coalition government," he said. Meanwhile, BJP leaders claimed JD(S)-Congress coalition was delaying the trust vote fearing imminent defeat due to lack of majority numbers. BJP legislators staged a night-long sit-in at Vidhana Soudha, protesting against the Congress-JD(S) government dragging its feet on the trust vote. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka crisis: Heated debate on in Assembly as deadline set by Governor ends

After a BJP delegation met Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala on Thursday over delay in the trust vote, he asked Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh to consider holding the trust vote by end of the day.

"Motion of confidence is in consideration at the house. Chief Minister is expected to maintain the confidence of the house at all times. Consider trust vote by the end of the day," he told&nbsp;the Speaker in a letter.

Earlier in the day, Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy moved confidence motion in the state Assembly at 11am to prove majority of his government amidst rebellion by a section of the lawmakers.

"I haven't come just because there is a question on whether I can run a coalition government or not. Events have shown that even the role of the Speaker has been put under jeopardy by some legislators," Kumaraswamy said in his opening speech.

He claimed that the dissenting legislators had moved the apex court with the BJP's assistance."A situation has been created so that people lose trust in us. Without any discussion they have wanted a trust vote", Kumaraswamy said.

Senior Congress leader and former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah that a floor test in the House will not be appropriate until a clarification is attained on the Supreme Court order allowing freedom to the 15 rebel MLAs from participating in the House proceedings.

"If we go ahead with the confidence motion, if the whip is applicable and they (rebel MLAs) don't come to the house because of the SC order, it will be a big loss to the coalition government," he said.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders claimed JD(S)-Congress coalition was delaying the trust vote fearing imminent defeat due to lack of majority numbers.

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court had ruled that the Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh cannot be forced to decide on the resignations of 15 rebel MLAs within a time frame.

The top court also said that the 15 rebel MLAs cannot be compelled to participate in the Assembly proceedings or the trust vote on Thursday.

15 rebel MLAs had approached the Supreme Court seeking direction to the speaker to accept their resignations at the earliest.

Karnataka government has been reduced to minority in the Assembly after 16 rebel legislators resigned and 2 Independents withdrew support to it.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

After a BJP delegation met Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala on Thursday over delay in the trust vote, he asked Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh to consider holding the trust vote by end of the day.

After a BJP delegation met Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala on Thursday over delay in the trust vote, he asked Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh to consider holding the trust vote by end of the day. "Motion of confidence is in consideration at the house. Chief Minister is expected to maintain the confidence of the house at all times. Consider trust vote by the end of the day," he told the Speaker in a letter. Earlier in the day, Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy moved confidence motion in the state Assembly at 11am to prove majority of his government amidst rebellion by a section of the lawmakers. "I haven't come just because there is a question on whether I can run a coalition government or not. Events have shown that even the role of the Speaker has been put under jeopardy by some legislators," Kumaraswamy said in his opening speech. He claimed that the dissenting legislators had moved the apex court with the BJP's assistance."A situation has been created so that people lose trust in us. Without any discussion they have wanted a trust vote", Kumaraswamy said. Senior Congress leader and former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah that a floor test in the House will not be appropriate until a clarification is attained on the Supreme Court order allowing freedom to the 15 rebel MLAs from participating in the House proceedings. "If we go ahead with the confidence motion, if the whip is applicable and they (rebel MLAs) don't come to the house because of the SC order, it will be a big loss to the coalition government," he said. Meanwhile, BJP leaders claimed JD(S)-Congress coalition was delaying the trust vote fearing imminent defeat due to lack of majority numbers. On Wednesday, the Supreme Court had ruled that the Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh cannot be forced to decide on the resignations of 15 rebel MLAs within a time frame. The top court also said that the 15 rebel MLAs cannot be compelled to participate in the Assembly proceedings or the trust vote on Thursday. 15 rebel MLAs had approached the Supreme Court seeking direction to the speaker to accept their resignations at the earliest. Karnataka government has been reduced to minority in the Assembly after 16 rebel legislators resigned and 2 Independents withdrew support to it. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka crisis: Consider trust vote by end of the day, Governor writes to Speaker

15 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs on Wednesday said that they will not participate in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnatakas-floor-test-to-be-held-thursday-236112">the trust vote</a> which will be held in Karnataka Assembly on Thursday.

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court said that the Karnataka <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-crisis-speaker-to-decide-on-resignations-of-15-mlas-as-he-wishes-says-supreme-court-236555">Speaker K R Ramesh cannot be forced</a> to decide on the resignations of 15 rebel MLAs within a time frame.

The top court also said that the 15 rebel MLAs cannot be compelled to participate in the Assembly proceedings or the trust vote on Thursday.

The rebel MLAs welcomed top court's verdict. "We honour the Supreme Court`s verdict. We all are together. We stand by our decision. There is no question of going to the Assembly," a rebel MLA said on behalf of the dissidents.

Congress leader Shivakumar warned the Congress-JD(S) rebels of disqualification proceedings against them under the anti-defection law if they did not obey the whip and participate in the proceedings during the trust vote in the Assembly on Thursday.

Hitting out at BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa, the Karnataka minister said: "This landmark judgement has given strength to democratic process. Some BJP friends are trying to misguide that whip is not valid but the party can issue a whip &amp; take necessary action as per anti-defection law."

Meanwhile, Yeddyurappa said the SC verdict was a moral victory for the rebel MLAs.

"Karnataka CM has lost his mandate, when there is no majority he must resign tomorrow. I welcome SC's decision, it's the victory of constitution and democracy, a moral victory for rebel MLAs. It's only an interim order, SC will decide powers of Speaker in future," he said.

15 rebel MLAs had approached the Supreme Court seeking direction to the speaker to accept their resignations at the earliest.

Karnataka government has been reduced to minority in the Assembly after 16 rebel legislators resigned and 2 Independents withdrew support to it. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

15 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs on Wednesday said that they will not participate in the trust vote which will be held in Karnataka Assembly on Thursday. Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court said that the Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh cannot be forced to decide on the resignations of 15 rebel MLAs within a time frame.

15 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs on Wednesday said that they will not participate in the trust vote which will be held in Karnataka Assembly on Thursday. Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court said that the Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh cannot be forced to decide on the resignations of 15 rebel MLAs within a time frame. The top court also said that the 15 rebel MLAs cannot be compelled to participate in the Assembly proceedings or the trust vote on Thursday. The rebel MLAs welcomed top court's verdict. "We honour the Supreme Court`s verdict. We all are together. We stand by our decision. There is no question of going to the Assembly," a rebel MLA said on behalf of the dissidents. Congress leader Shivakumar warned the Congress-JD(S) rebels of disqualification proceedings against them under the anti-defection law if they did not obey the whip and participate in the proceedings during the trust vote in the Assembly on Thursday. Hitting out at BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa, the Karnataka minister said: "This landmark judgement has given strength to democratic process. Some BJP friends are trying to misguide that whip is not valid but the party can issue a whip & take necessary action as per anti-defection law." Meanwhile, Yeddyurappa said the SC verdict was a moral victory for the rebel MLAs. "Karnataka CM has lost his mandate, when there is no majority he must resign tomorrow. I welcome SC's decision, it's the victory of constitution and democracy, a moral victory for rebel MLAs. It's only an interim order, SC will decide powers of Speaker in future," he said. 15 rebel MLAs had approached the Supreme Court seeking direction to the speaker to accept their resignations at the earliest. Karnataka government has been reduced to minority in the Assembly after 16 rebel legislators resigned and 2 Independents withdrew support to it. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka crisis: Rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs refuse to participate in trust vote on Thursday

The Supreme Court on Wednesday said that&nbsp;Speaker K R Ramesh cannot be forced to decide on the resignations of 15 rebel MLAs within a time frame. 
 
"The discretion of the Speaker should not be fettered by any direction from the court. The Speaker can decide on the resignations as and when he feels appropriate," the top court said 
 
&nbsp;"As and when it is decided the same shall be placed before the apex court," the bench headed&nbsp;Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi further added. 
 
The top court also said that the rebel MLAs cannot&nbsp;be&nbsp;compelled to participate in the Assembly proceedings or the&nbsp;trust vote on Thursday. 
 
Reacting to the verdict, Karnataka Speaker said that he will take a decision that in no way will go contrary to the Constitution, the Court and the Lokpal. 
 
The rebel MLAs welcomed top court's&nbsp;verdict. "We honour the Supreme Court`s verdict. We all are together. We stand by our decision. There is no question of going to the Assembly," a rebel MLA said on behalf of the dissidents. 
 
Supreme Court on Tuesday had reserved its order on 15 rebel&nbsp;Karnataka MLAs plea against Speaker K R Ramesh for not accepting their resignations.

On Tuesday, a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justices Aniruddha Bose and Deepak Gupta heard the submissions made by the counsels of both the petitioners and the respondents.

Last week, the Supreme Court&nbsp;had directed Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh to not to decide on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs till Tuesday.

Supreme Court's direction had come after ten Congress and JD(S) MLAs moved the top court, seeking a direction to the Speaker to accept their resignation and not proceed with the applications for their disqualification from the House.

Following which Speaker K R Ramesh had urged the apex court to recall its order which asked him to take a decision on the resignation of MLAs during the course of the day i.e. July 11.

On Monday, five other rebel MLAs approached the Supreme Court seeking direction to the speaker to accept their resignations at the earliest.

Karnataka government has been reduced to minority in the Assembly after 16 rebel legislators resigned and 2 Independents withdrew support to it.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Wednesday said that Speaker K R Ramesh cannot be forced to decide on the resignations of 15 rebel MLAs within a time frame. "The discretion of the Speaker should not be fettered by any direction from the court.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday said that Speaker K R Ramesh cannot be forced to decide on the resignations of 15 rebel MLAs within a time frame. "The discretion of the Speaker should not be fettered by any direction from the court. The Speaker can decide on the resignations as and when he feels appropriate," the top court said "As and when it is decided the same shall be placed before the apex court," the bench headed Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi further added. The top court also said that the rebel MLAs cannot be compelled to participate in the Assembly proceedings or the trust vote on Thursday. Reacting to the verdict, Karnataka Speaker said that he will take a decision that in no way will go contrary to the Constitution, the Court and the Lokpal. The rebel MLAs welcomed top court's verdict. "We honour the Supreme Court`s verdict. We all are together. We stand by our decision. There is no question of going to the Assembly," a rebel MLA said on behalf of the dissidents. Supreme Court on Tuesday had reserved its order on 15 rebel Karnataka MLAs plea against Speaker K R Ramesh for not accepting their resignations. On Tuesday, a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justices Aniruddha Bose and Deepak Gupta heard the submissions made by the counsels of both the petitioners and the respondents. Last week, the Supreme Court had directed Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh to not to decide on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs till Tuesday. Supreme Court's direction had come after ten Congress and JD(S) MLAs moved the top court, seeking a direction to the Speaker to accept their resignation and not proceed with the applications for their disqualification from the House. Following which Speaker K R Ramesh had urged the apex court to recall its order which asked him to take a decision on the resignation of MLAs during the course of the day i.e. July 11. On Monday, five other rebel MLAs approached the Supreme Court seeking direction to the speaker to accept their resignations at the earliest. Karnataka government has been reduced to minority in the Assembly after 16 rebel legislators resigned and 2 Independents withdrew support to it. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka crisis: Speaker can't be forced to take a decision on resignations of MLAs within a time frame, says Supreme Court

Supreme Court on Tuesday reserved its order on 15 rebel&nbsp;Karnataka MLAs plea against Speaker K R Ramesh for not accepting their resignations.

The top court will pronounce the verdict at 10.30am on Wednesday. 
 
A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justices Aniruddha Bose and Deepak Gupta heard the submissions made by the counsels of both the petitioners and the respondents.

Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi representing rebel MLAs said, "I don't want to be an MLA. Nobody can force me. My resignation must be accepted."

Rohatgi said the Speaker can't hold the resignations for so many days. "This is an attempt to scuttle their resignations. The Speaker is trying to make a decision on both the issues-resignation and disqualification-at the same time," he said. 
 
Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who is representing Speaker, said that four of the MLAs who had resigned did not even present themselves before the Speaker."The rules are clear. The member of the House has to personally appear before the Speaker," he said, when asked by the CJI if the resignations were not genuine.

The Supreme Court on Friday directed Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh to not to decide on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs till Tuesday.

Supreme Court's direction had come after ten Congress and JD(S) MLAs moved the top court, seeking a direction to the Speaker to accept their resignation and not proceed with the applications for their disqualification from the House.

Following which Speaker K R Ramesh had urged the apex court to recall its order which asked him to take a decision on the resignation of MLAs during the course of the day i.e. July 11.

On Monday, five other rebel MLAs approached the Supreme Court seeking direction to the speaker to accept their resignations at the earliest.

Meanwhile, the Kumaraswamy government will face the trust vote in Karnataka Assembly at 11am on Thursday.

Karnataka government has been reduced to minority in the Assembly after 16 rebel legislators resigned and 2 Independents withdrew support to it.

(With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court on Tuesday reserved its order on 15 rebel Karnataka MLAs plea against Speaker K R Ramesh for not accepting their resignations. The top court will pronounce the verdict at 10.

Supreme Court on Tuesday reserved its order on 15 rebel Karnataka MLAs plea against Speaker K R Ramesh for not accepting their resignations. The top court will pronounce the verdict at 10.30am on Wednesday. A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justices Aniruddha Bose and Deepak Gupta heard the submissions made by the counsels of both the petitioners and the respondents. Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi representing rebel MLAs said, "I don't want to be an MLA. Nobody can force me. My resignation must be accepted." Rohatgi said the Speaker can't hold the resignations for so many days. "This is an attempt to scuttle their resignations. The Speaker is trying to make a decision on both the issues-resignation and disqualification-at the same time," he said. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who is representing Speaker, said that four of the MLAs who had resigned did not even present themselves before the Speaker."The rules are clear. The member of the House has to personally appear before the Speaker," he said, when asked by the CJI if the resignations were not genuine. The Supreme Court on Friday directed Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh to not to decide on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs till Tuesday. Supreme Court's direction had come after ten Congress and JD(S) MLAs moved the top court, seeking a direction to the Speaker to accept their resignation and not proceed with the applications for their disqualification from the House. Following which Speaker K R Ramesh had urged the apex court to recall its order which asked him to take a decision on the resignation of MLAs during the course of the day i.e. July 11. On Monday, five other rebel MLAs approached the Supreme Court seeking direction to the speaker to accept their resignations at the earliest. Meanwhile, the Kumaraswamy government will face the trust vote in Karnataka Assembly at 11am on Thursday. Karnataka government has been reduced to minority in the Assembly after 16 rebel legislators resigned and 2 Independents withdrew support to it. (With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court to pronounce order in Karnataka rebel MLAs case on Wednesday

Supreme Court on Tuesday took up the pleas of 10&nbsp;rebel Karnataka MLAs against Speaker K R Ramesh for not accepting their resignations.

Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi representing rebel MLAs said, "I don't want to be an MLA. Nobody can force me. My resignation must be accepted."

Rohatgi said the Speaker can't hold the resignations for so many days. "This is an attempt to scuttle their resignations. The Speaker is trying to make a decision on both the issues-resignation and disqualification-at the same time," he said.

The Supreme Court on Friday directed Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh to not to decide on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs till Tuesday.

Supreme Court's direction had come after ten Congress and JD(S) MLAs moved the top court, seeking a direction to the Speaker to accept their resignation and not proceed with the applications for their disqualification from the House.

Following which Speaker K R Ramesh had urged the apex court to recall its order which asked him to take a decision on the resignation of MLAs during the course of the day i.e. July 11.

On Monday, five other rebel MLAs approached the Supreme Court seeking direction to the speaker to accept their resignations at the earliest.

Meanwhile, the Kumaraswamy government will face the trust vote in Karnataka Assembly at 11am on Thursday.

Karnataka government has been reduced to minority in the Assembly after 16 rebel legislators resigned and 2 Independents withdrew support to it. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court on Tuesday took up the pleas of 10 rebel Karnataka MLAs against Speaker K R Ramesh for not accepting their resignations. Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi representing rebel MLAs said, "I don't want to be an MLA.

Supreme Court on Tuesday took up the pleas of 10 rebel Karnataka MLAs against Speaker K R Ramesh for not accepting their resignations. Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi representing rebel MLAs said, "I don't want to be an MLA. Nobody can force me. My resignation must be accepted." Rohatgi said the Speaker can't hold the resignations for so many days. "This is an attempt to scuttle their resignations. The Speaker is trying to make a decision on both the issues-resignation and disqualification-at the same time," he said. The Supreme Court on Friday directed Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh to not to decide on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs till Tuesday. Supreme Court's direction had come after ten Congress and JD(S) MLAs moved the top court, seeking a direction to the Speaker to accept their resignation and not proceed with the applications for their disqualification from the House. Following which Speaker K R Ramesh had urged the apex court to recall its order which asked him to take a decision on the resignation of MLAs during the course of the day i.e. July 11. On Monday, five other rebel MLAs approached the Supreme Court seeking direction to the speaker to accept their resignations at the earliest. Meanwhile, the Kumaraswamy government will face the trust vote in Karnataka Assembly at 11am on Thursday. Karnataka government has been reduced to minority in the Assembly after 16 rebel legislators resigned and 2 Independents withdrew support to it. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka crisis: Supreme Court takes up rebel MLAs' plea

Rebel Congress leader Ramalinga Reddy has skipped his meeting with Karnataka Assembly Speaker K R Ramesh, who had called him to check whether he had resigned voluntarily. Reddy, who was among the dissident Congress MLAs, was called by the Speaker on Monday evening to check whether his resignation was on his own volition and voluntary so that the presiding officer could take a decision on the resignation."I went to see doctor, it got delayed. Speakers'&nbsp;office will call me, I will go today or tomorrow, whenever they call me," he told ANI on his skipping the meeting. 
 
Reddy may be called by the Speaker today, sources said. Reddy, who along with nine Congress-JD(S) MLAs resigned on July 6, said that he tendered his resignation due to party`s internal matters."My reasons (of resignation) were purely internal and party, not on high command and not on Congress party, not on the chief minister," he said. 
 
However, the Speaker had rejected eight MLAs resignation including that of Reddy, saying their resignation was not in order. When asked whether he is planning to attend the floor test, Reddy said, "My resignation is not accepted till now, so I will attend the test."Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear an impleading petition by five Karnataka rebel MLAs in the case relating to early decision by Assembly Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar. 
 
The 13-month old Congress-JDS government slumped into crisis following the resignation of 11 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly on Saturday. 
 
&nbsp;

Rebel Congress leader Ramalinga Reddy has skipped his meeting with Karnataka Assembly Speaker K R Ramesh, who had called him to check whether he had resigned voluntarily.

Rebel Congress leader Ramalinga Reddy has skipped his meeting with Karnataka Assembly Speaker K R Ramesh, who had called him to check whether he had resigned voluntarily. Reddy, who was among the dissident Congress MLAs, was called by the Speaker on Monday evening to check whether his resignation was on his own volition and voluntary so that the presiding officer could take a decision on the resignation."I went to see doctor, it got delayed. Speakers' office will call me, I will go today or tomorrow, whenever they call me," he told ANI on his skipping the meeting. Reddy may be called by the Speaker today, sources said. Reddy, who along with nine Congress-JD(S) MLAs resigned on July 6, said that he tendered his resignation due to party`s internal matters."My reasons (of resignation) were purely internal and party, not on high command and not on Congress party, not on the chief minister," he said. However, the Speaker had rejected eight MLAs resignation including that of Reddy, saying their resignation was not in order. When asked whether he is planning to attend the floor test, Reddy said, "My resignation is not accepted till now, so I will attend the test."Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear an impleading petition by five Karnataka rebel MLAs in the case relating to early decision by Assembly Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar. The 13-month old Congress-JDS government slumped into crisis following the resignation of 11 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly on Saturday.

Rebel Congress leader Ramalinga Reddy skips meeting with Karnataka Assembly Speaker

Karnataka Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar on Monday said that he will take up trust vote on Thursday after the Supreme Court delivers its verdict on the plea of rebel MLAs. 
 
The trust vote will be held at 11am on Thursday, Congress leader and former chief minister Siddaramaiah confirmed.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy had on Friday told the Speaker that he was ready to seek a trust vote or face a no-confidence motion during the session which will go on July 26.

Karnataka government has been reduced to minority in the Assembly after 16 rebel legislators have resigned and 2 Independents withdrew support to it.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Friday asked Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh to not to decide on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs till Tuesday.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that it will consider the issue on Tuesday.

Supreme Court's direction came after ten Congress and JD(S) MLAs had moved the top court, seeking a direction to the Speaker to accept their resignation and not proceed with the applications for their disqualification from the House.

Following which Speaker K R Ramesh had urged the apex court to recall its order which asked him to take a decision on the resignation of MLAs during the course of the day i.e. July 11.

The top court on Tuesday will also hear an impending plea of five rebel MLAs against Assembly Speaker K.R. Ramesh Kumar`s decision to not accept their resignations.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Karnataka Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar on Monday said that he will take up trust vote on Thursday after the Supreme Court delivers its verdict on the plea of rebel MLAs.

Karnataka Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar on Monday said that he will take up trust vote on Thursday after the Supreme Court delivers its verdict on the plea of rebel MLAs. The trust vote will be held at 11am on Thursday, Congress leader and former chief minister Siddaramaiah confirmed. Kumaraswamy had on Friday told the Speaker that he was ready to seek a trust vote or face a no-confidence motion during the session which will go on July 26. Karnataka government has been reduced to minority in the Assembly after 16 rebel legislators have resigned and 2 Independents withdrew support to it. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Friday asked Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh to not to decide on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs till Tuesday. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that it will consider the issue on Tuesday. Supreme Court's direction came after ten Congress and JD(S) MLAs had moved the top court, seeking a direction to the Speaker to accept their resignation and not proceed with the applications for their disqualification from the House. Following which Speaker K R Ramesh had urged the apex court to recall its order which asked him to take a decision on the resignation of MLAs during the course of the day i.e. July 11. The top court on Tuesday will also hear an impending plea of five rebel MLAs against Assembly Speaker K.R. Ramesh Kumar`s decision to not accept their resignations. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka crisis: Kumaraswamy government to face trust vote on July 18

Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy on Friday said he was ready to seek a trust vote and asked Speaker K R Ramesh to fix time and date for the same.

"After all these developments, I am seeking your permission and time to prove the majority in this session," he told Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar in the Assembly.

Kumaraswamy said he was also ready to face a trial of strength in the Assembly if the BJP moved a no-confidence motion. 
 
The Speaker said he will allot a slot for the trust vote whenever the chief minister opts for it. 
 
Former Karnataka chief minister and Congress leader Siddaramaiah&nbsp;said that he is confident that the JD(S)-Congress coalition government will win a vote of confidence in the Assembly."

I do not want to disclose but I am confident that we will win the vote of confidence motion," he said referring to Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy's statement in the House that he was ready to face a floor test.

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court ordered a Status Quo on the resignations of rebel MLAs till Tuesday. The court directed the Assembly Speaker not to decide&nbsp;on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs until then.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that it will consider the issue on Tuesday.

Ten Congress and JD(S) MLAs on Thursday had moved the Supreme Court, seeking a direction to the Speaker to accept their resignation and not proceed with the applications for their disqualification from the House.

Following which Speaker K R Ramesh had urged the apex court to recall its order which asked him to take a decision on the resignation of MLAs during the course of the day i.e. July 11.

A total of 16 MLAs including 13 from the Congress and 3 from JD(S) have resigned even as two independents have withdrawn support to the 13-month old Congress-JD(S) coalition government

(Inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy on Friday said he was ready to seek a trust vote and asked Speaker K R Ramesh to fix time and date for the same. "After all these developments, I am seeking your permission and time to prove the majority in this session," he told Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar in the Assembly.

Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy on Friday said he was ready to seek a trust vote and asked Speaker K R Ramesh to fix time and date for the same. "After all these developments, I am seeking your permission and time to prove the majority in this session," he told Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar in the Assembly. Kumaraswamy said he was also ready to face a trial of strength in the Assembly if the BJP moved a no-confidence motion. The Speaker said he will allot a slot for the trust vote whenever the chief minister opts for it. Former Karnataka chief minister and Congress leader Siddaramaiah said that he is confident that the JD(S)-Congress coalition government will win a vote of confidence in the Assembly." I do not want to disclose but I am confident that we will win the vote of confidence motion," he said referring to Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy's statement in the House that he was ready to face a floor test. Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court ordered a Status Quo on the resignations of rebel MLAs till Tuesday. The court directed the Assembly Speaker not to decide on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs until then. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that it will consider the issue on Tuesday. Ten Congress and JD(S) MLAs on Thursday had moved the Supreme Court, seeking a direction to the Speaker to accept their resignation and not proceed with the applications for their disqualification from the House. Following which Speaker K R Ramesh had urged the apex court to recall its order which asked him to take a decision on the resignation of MLAs during the course of the day i.e. July 11. A total of 16 MLAs including 13 from the Congress and 3 from JD(S) have resigned even as two independents have withdrawn support to the 13-month old Congress-JD(S) coalition government (Inputs from agencies)

Karnataka crisis: Ready for both trust vote or no-confidence motion, HD Kumaraswamy tells Speaker

The Supreme Court on Friday asked Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh to not to decide on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs till Tuesday.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi&nbsp;said that it will consider the issue on Tuesday.

The observation came after Speaker K R Ramesh submitted his report to the top court today after meeting ten rebel MLAs.

Mukul Rohatgi, rebel MLAs' counsel, submitted to the Supreme Court that the Speaker is answerable to this court, except under certain circumstances. He argued that Speaker had no immunity with regard to the acceptance of resignations.

Meanwhile, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, making submissions for Speaker, said that the Speaker needs to ensure that resignations are voluntary and genuine.

"These MLAs' intention in giving resignation is something different, and it is to avoid disqualification," he said.

MLAs had met Kumar on Thursday evening after they were directed by the Supreme Court to meet the Speaker and resubmit their resignations in person. Following the meeting with the MLAs, the Speaker had said that he will consider "to his satisfaction" whether the resignations were genuine and voluntary before taking a decision.

Ten Congress and JD(S) MLAs had earlier moved the Supreme Court, seeking a direction to the Speaker to accept their resignation and not proceed with the applications for their disqualification from the House.

Following which Speaker K R Ramesh had urged the apex court to recall its order which asked him to take a decision on the resignation of MLAs during the course of the day i.e. July 11.

The Speaker had submitted that the rebel MLAs who have approached the apex court have cast aspersions questioning his integrity which are completely false and frivolous.

The 13-month-old Congress-JDS government had earlier this month slumped into crisis following the resignation of 10 MLAs.

Meanwhile, the Karnataka Assembly session began today. Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy said he is prepared for the floor test and sought time for the same. "After all these developments, I am seeking your permission &amp; time to prove the majority in this session," he told the Speaker. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court on Friday asked Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh to not to decide on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs till Tuesday. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that it will consider the issue on Tuesday.

The Supreme Court on Friday asked Karnataka Speaker K R Ramesh to not to decide on the resignations or disqualifications of the MLAs till Tuesday. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that it will consider the issue on Tuesday. The observation came after Speaker K R Ramesh submitted his report to the top court today after meeting ten rebel MLAs. Mukul Rohatgi, rebel MLAs' counsel, submitted to the Supreme Court that the Speaker is answerable to this court, except under certain circumstances. He argued that Speaker had no immunity with regard to the acceptance of resignations. Meanwhile, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, making submissions for Speaker, said that the Speaker needs to ensure that resignations are voluntary and genuine. "These MLAs' intention in giving resignation is something different, and it is to avoid disqualification," he said. MLAs had met Kumar on Thursday evening after they were directed by the Supreme Court to meet the Speaker and resubmit their resignations in person. Following the meeting with the MLAs, the Speaker had said that he will consider "to his satisfaction" whether the resignations were genuine and voluntary before taking a decision. Ten Congress and JD(S) MLAs had earlier moved the Supreme Court, seeking a direction to the Speaker to accept their resignation and not proceed with the applications for their disqualification from the House. Following which Speaker K R Ramesh had urged the apex court to recall its order which asked him to take a decision on the resignation of MLAs during the course of the day i.e. July 11. The Speaker had submitted that the rebel MLAs who have approached the apex court have cast aspersions questioning his integrity which are completely false and frivolous. The 13-month-old Congress-JDS government had earlier this month slumped into crisis following the resignation of 10 MLAs. Meanwhile, the Karnataka Assembly session began today. Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy said he is prepared for the floor test and sought time for the same. "After all these developments, I am seeking your permission & time to prove the majority in this session," he told the Speaker. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka crisis: Supreme Court orders status quo till Tuesday on rebel MLAs' resignations

In a jolt to fragile Janata Dal (Secular)-Congress coalition in Karnataka, independent legislator Nagesh has withdrawn his support to the HD Kumaraswamy government. Nagesh was a serving minister in the state government. He skipped the meeting called at the house of deputy chief minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-in-talks-with-disgruntled-leaders-says-deputy-cm-parameshwara-amid-political-crisis-233764">G Parameshwara</a> and instead went to the Governor's House to submit his resignation.

Nagesh said in his resignation letter that he supports the BJP. Nagesh, the MLA from Mulbgal, was inducted into the state Cabinet in the June 12 expansion.

Nagesh's resignation, if accepted, is going to put further stress on the wafer-thin margin of the ruling coalition. The strength of Karnataka Assembly is going to be reduced to 210 - the ruling coalition will have 104 members. With the bench strength of 105, the opposition BJP will be just one short of the majority mark.

However, Karnataka BJP chief BS Yeddyurappa has said that the party has nothing to do with the current crisis. "We (BJP) have nothing to do with the crisis in the coalition but it is a cause of concern for people of Karnataka," he said on Sunday.

Today's breakfast meeting has been called by the state government to try and placate the rebel MLAs by asking the sitting ministers to resign and giving the ministerial berths to those who have revolted against the government. Thirteen of the 22 Congress ministers are present in the meeting, and sources say all of them have been asked to resign.

Parameshwara has been the first one to offer resignation to save the coalition. "The party will take a decision. If the party says you have to resign I will resign," he said before the meeting.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi has, meanwhile, blamed Siddaramaiah for te current crisis. "The Congress party is leaderless now and their internal party problems have spiralled out of their hands. We totally condemn the way our party leaders are being dragged into this matter. This act is not acceptable, the root cause of this crisis is Siddaramaiah," Joshi said.

The Congress-JD (S) government in Karnataka plunged into crisis on Saturday following the resignation of at least 11 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly. Later in the day, 10 Congress MLAs left for Mumbai where they are said to be lodged in a hotel. JD(S) MLA H Vishwanath claimed that 14 MLAs have jointly tendered resignations to Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar and requested him to accept them.

The Speaker, however, has not yet accepted the resignations.

Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, who was in the USA, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-crisis-kumaraswamy-reaches-bengaluru-will-hold-meet-with-jds-congress-leaders-233825">reached Bengaluru on Sunday</a> and immediately took stock of the situation. He is involved in a series of meetings to defuse the crisis.

In a jolt to fragile Janata Dal (Secular)-Congress coalition in Karnataka, independent legislator Nagesh has withdrawn his support to the HD Kumaraswamy government.

In a jolt to fragile Janata Dal (Secular)-Congress coalition in Karnataka, independent legislator Nagesh has withdrawn his support to the HD Kumaraswamy government. Nagesh was a serving minister in the state government. He skipped the meeting called at the house of deputy chief minister G Parameshwara and instead went to the Governor's House to submit his resignation. Nagesh said in his resignation letter that he supports the BJP. Nagesh, the MLA from Mulbgal, was inducted into the state Cabinet in the June 12 expansion. Nagesh's resignation, if accepted, is going to put further stress on the wafer-thin margin of the ruling coalition. The strength of Karnataka Assembly is going to be reduced to 210 - the ruling coalition will have 104 members. With the bench strength of 105, the opposition BJP will be just one short of the majority mark. However, Karnataka BJP chief BS Yeddyurappa has said that the party has nothing to do with the current crisis. "We (BJP) have nothing to do with the crisis in the coalition but it is a cause of concern for people of Karnataka," he said on Sunday. Today's breakfast meeting has been called by the state government to try and placate the rebel MLAs by asking the sitting ministers to resign and giving the ministerial berths to those who have revolted against the government. Thirteen of the 22 Congress ministers are present in the meeting, and sources say all of them have been asked to resign. Parameshwara has been the first one to offer resignation to save the coalition. "The party will take a decision. If the party says you have to resign I will resign," he said before the meeting. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi has, meanwhile, blamed Siddaramaiah for te current crisis. "The Congress party is leaderless now and their internal party problems have spiralled out of their hands. We totally condemn the way our party leaders are being dragged into this matter. This act is not acceptable, the root cause of this crisis is Siddaramaiah," Joshi said. The Congress-JD (S) government in Karnataka plunged into crisis on Saturday following the resignation of at least 11 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly. Later in the day, 10 Congress MLAs left for Mumbai where they are said to be lodged in a hotel. JD(S) MLA H Vishwanath claimed that 14 MLAs have jointly tendered resignations to Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar and requested him to accept them. The Speaker, however, has not yet accepted the resignations. Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, who was in the USA, reached Bengaluru on Sunday and immediately took stock of the situation. He is involved in a series of meetings to defuse the crisis.

Kumaraswamy government inching towards minority as another legislator pulls support

Janata Dal (Secular) on Thursday named H K Kumaraswamy as the new party president for Karnataka and Madhu Bangarappa as the working president.&nbsp;

The post for party president became vacant after A H Vishwanath had resigned taking moral responsibility for the party's defeat in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp; 
 
"Madhu Bangarappa will be the working president of JDS. We have decided to have only one working president, there is no question of multiple working presidents," said JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda.

The state committee also elected Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil Kumaraswamy to lead its youth wing in the state.&nbsp;

"Last week I said questions might arise that your family dynasty continues, but this came as a shock for me. I was really surprised when HD Deve Gowda Ji took this call. I am looking forward to work for the party," said Nikhil Kumaraswamy while speaking to media.

Last month, Gowda had hinted on a possible rift between the Congress-JD(S) alliance in Karnataka.

Deve Gowda said, "The leaders of the party (Congress) are worried that they will perish if they continue to go forward with us. They are observing extreme caution in maintaining the coalition government. To ensure this they have even taken a cabinet berth that was allotted to the JD(S). We are just enduring everything and moving forward."

The dissidence within the coalition has been making news since Kumaraswamy took oath a year ago, the severe drubbing in the Lok Sabha elections have further embarrassed the two partners. Of the 28 seats, Congress and JD(S) managed to win just one seat each and BJP won the lion's share of 25 seats.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Janata Dal (Secular) on Thursday named H K Kumaraswamy as the new party president for Karnataka and Madhu Bangarappa as the working president. The post for party president became vacant after A H Vishwanath had resigned taking moral responsibility for the party's defeat in the Lok Sabha elections.

Janata Dal (Secular) on Thursday named H K Kumaraswamy as the new party president for Karnataka and Madhu Bangarappa as the working president. The post for party president became vacant after A H Vishwanath had resigned taking moral responsibility for the party's defeat in the Lok Sabha elections. "Madhu Bangarappa will be the working president of JDS. We have decided to have only one working president, there is no question of multiple working presidents," said JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda. The state committee also elected Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil Kumaraswamy to lead its youth wing in the state. "Last week I said questions might arise that your family dynasty continues, but this came as a shock for me. I was really surprised when HD Deve Gowda Ji took this call. I am looking forward to work for the party," said Nikhil Kumaraswamy while speaking to media. Last month, Gowda had hinted on a possible rift between the Congress-JD(S) alliance in Karnataka. Deve Gowda said, "The leaders of the party (Congress) are worried that they will perish if they continue to go forward with us. They are observing extreme caution in maintaining the coalition government. To ensure this they have even taken a cabinet berth that was allotted to the JD(S). We are just enduring everything and moving forward." The dissidence within the coalition has been making news since Kumaraswamy took oath a year ago, the severe drubbing in the Lok Sabha elections have further embarrassed the two partners. Of the 28 seats, Congress and JD(S) managed to win just one seat each and BJP won the lion's share of 25 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

H K Kumaraswamy named Janata Dal (Secular) state chief; Nikhil Kumaraswamy youth wing president

Bharatiya Janata Party continues to daydream about destabilising Karnataka government, said Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy after Congress MLA Anand Singh submitted his resignation from the legislative assembly on Monday, sparking speculations that more Congress legislators could also step down.

"I'm at kalabhairaveshwara temple foundation laying ceremony. I`m watching TV channels. Destabilizing govt is just a continues daydream of BJP," Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy tweeted.

Congress legislator Anand Singh on Monday announced his resignation from Karnataka legislative assembly, thinning the majority of the Congress-Janata Dal (Secular) coalition government in the state.

After the exit of Anand Singh, the Congress will now be left with 79 seats and JDS 37 in the 225-member Karnataka Assembly.

Congress leader DK Shivakumar, who was instrumental in getting Singh to switch from the BJP ahead of state elections last year, expressed shock at his resignation but said there is no threat to the government.

"I spoke to CM today and there is no threat to this government. No one is leaving and no elections will be happening. No one can dream of any government," Shivakumar said when questioned about rumours of instability in the Karnataka government.BJP legislator Jagadish Shettar, however, said that the collapse of the Congress-JDS Karnataka government is imminent."

A lot of Congress and JDS MLAs are unhappy with this government and as a result, Anand Singh has resigned from legislative assembly. So, it is the starting point of the collapse of this government and at any point, this government can collapse," former CM Jagadish Shettar said.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party continues to daydream about destabilising Karnataka government, said Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy after Congress MLA Anand Singh submitted his resignation from the legislative assembly on Monday, sparking speculations that more Congress legislators could also step down.

Bharatiya Janata Party continues to daydream about destabilising Karnataka government, said Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy after Congress MLA Anand Singh submitted his resignation from the legislative assembly on Monday, sparking speculations that more Congress legislators could also step down. "I'm at kalabhairaveshwara temple foundation laying ceremony. I`m watching TV channels. Destabilizing govt is just a continues daydream of BJP," Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy tweeted. Congress legislator Anand Singh on Monday announced his resignation from Karnataka legislative assembly, thinning the majority of the Congress-Janata Dal (Secular) coalition government in the state. After the exit of Anand Singh, the Congress will now be left with 79 seats and JDS 37 in the 225-member Karnataka Assembly. Congress leader DK Shivakumar, who was instrumental in getting Singh to switch from the BJP ahead of state elections last year, expressed shock at his resignation but said there is no threat to the government. "I spoke to CM today and there is no threat to this government. No one is leaving and no elections will be happening. No one can dream of any government," Shivakumar said when questioned about rumours of instability in the Karnataka government.BJP legislator Jagadish Shettar, however, said that the collapse of the Congress-JDS Karnataka government is imminent." A lot of Congress and JDS MLAs are unhappy with this government and as a result, Anand Singh has resigned from legislative assembly. So, it is the starting point of the collapse of this government and at any point, this government can collapse," former CM Jagadish Shettar said.

BJP daydreaming about destabilising Karnataka government: Kumaraswamy after MLA resignation

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Wednesday lost his cool when employees of the Yermarus Thermal Power Station (YTPS) in Raichur district blocked his convoy to submit a list of their grievances.

Kumaraswamy shouted at a group of workers who approached him. The chief minister was in Raichur for his 'Grama Vastavya' (village stay) programme.

"You voted for Narendra Modi and want me to get your works done! You want me to give you respect. Should I baton-charge you? Leave the place," he told the YTPS employees, leaving onlookers shocked.

The chief minister then left the place.

Later, Kumaraswamy told a television channel that he had sought 15 days time to address the workers' grievances but they blocked the road which made him angry.

He asked if the Prime Minister's convoy was blocked would anyone accept it.

This government is tolerant, but it is not incapable and knows how to deal with situations, said the 59-year-old chief minister.

He will spend the night at a government higher primary school in Karegudda under Manvi Taluk of the district as part of his 'Grama Vastavya' programme. This is the chief minister's second such stay, the first was in Chandaraki village in Yadgiri district.

Meanwhile, the Karnataka BJP condemned the chief minister's outburst and threatened to stage state-wide agitations if Kumaraswamy did not apologise to the masses.

BJP MLC and spokesperson N Ravi Kumar said Kumaraswamy seemed to have forgotten that he is the chief minister of 6.5 crore people of the state and not only of some Janata Dal (Secular) workers and legislators.

Kumar said the chief minister's act was against democracy.

"This is against democracy. The chief minister should immediately seek an apology from the people. He should call them and hear them. If this continues, the BJP will agitate against him across the state," Kumar told PTI.

He reminded the chief minister that the purpose of the "Grama Vastavya" programme was to address the grievances of farmers, workers, women, children and people at large.

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Wednesday lost his cool when employees of the Yermarus Thermal Power Station (YTPS) in Raichur district blocked his convoy to submit a list of their grievances.

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Wednesday lost his cool when employees of the Yermarus Thermal Power Station (YTPS) in Raichur district blocked his convoy to submit a list of their grievances. Kumaraswamy shouted at a group of workers who approached him. The chief minister was in Raichur for his 'Grama Vastavya' (village stay) programme. "You voted for Narendra Modi and want me to get your works done! You want me to give you respect. Should I baton-charge you? Leave the place," he told the YTPS employees, leaving onlookers shocked. The chief minister then left the place. Later, Kumaraswamy told a television channel that he had sought 15 days time to address the workers' grievances but they blocked the road which made him angry. He asked if the Prime Minister's convoy was blocked would anyone accept it. This government is tolerant, but it is not incapable and knows how to deal with situations, said the 59-year-old chief minister. He will spend the night at a government higher primary school in Karegudda under Manvi Taluk of the district as part of his 'Grama Vastavya' programme. This is the chief minister's second such stay, the first was in Chandaraki village in Yadgiri district. Meanwhile, the Karnataka BJP condemned the chief minister's outburst and threatened to stage state-wide agitations if Kumaraswamy did not apologise to the masses. BJP MLC and spokesperson N Ravi Kumar said Kumaraswamy seemed to have forgotten that he is the chief minister of 6.5 crore people of the state and not only of some Janata Dal (Secular) workers and legislators. Kumar said the chief minister's act was against democracy. "This is against democracy. The chief minister should immediately seek an apology from the people. He should call them and hear them. If this continues, the BJP will agitate against him across the state," Kumar told PTI. He reminded the chief minister that the purpose of the "Grama Vastavya" programme was to address the grievances of farmers, workers, women, children and people at large.

You voted for Narendra Modi but want me to get your work done, says 'angry' Kumaraswamy

Karnataka Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-applies-make-up-everyday-to-get-shine-on-face-hd-kumaraswamy-209104">HD Kumaraswamy </a>on Friday stressed the importance of the regional parties in Lok Sabha elections and claimed that these parties will play an important role in the formation of the next government at the Centre.

In an exclusive interview to WION, Kumaraswamy said that 2019 is an election of regional parties and that the Congress-JD(S) alliance will beat BJP.

"Local leaders must cooperate to achieve the full potential of the alliance," Kumaraswamy said.

The Karnataka Chief Minister strongly criticised BJP and said that it has an unofficial alliance with ED, CBI and Income Tax department.

"Modi government is misusing the institutions. The raids on Opposition is part of political agenda and not good for democracy," he said.

He also said that Pulwama was an intelligence failure and that Modi should be asked that how is he running the intelligence department of the country?

"Modi is not going to come back to power. The nationalist rhetoric is not going to work in this election," said Kumaraswamy, adding that Congress president Rahul Gandhi has evolved into a mature politician.

In a controversial remark, Kumaraswamy said, "Modi is not a humane person and vengeance in politics does not work well. I urge the young community in the country not to get swayed by speeches of the Prime Minister."

He also admitted that he has received full cooperation from the Congress leaders, but the alliance needs to work well on the ground. He also said that he has a comfortable working relationship with former chief minister Siddaramaiah.

The chief minister said that Hindutva will not work in the current elections as the job is the main issue on which the ruling government has failed miserably.

Karnataka will vote in the second and third phases of Lok Sabha election, scheduled on April 18 and 23, respectively.

(You can watch the full interview at 8.30 AM and 4.30 PM on Saturday, 9.30 and 1.30 PM on Sunday and 2.30 PM on Monday)

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Friday stressed the importance of the regional parties in Lok Sabha elections and claimed that these parties will play an important role in the formation of the next government at the Centre.

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Friday stressed the importance of the regional parties in Lok Sabha elections and claimed that these parties will play an important role in the formation of the next government at the Centre. In an exclusive interview to WION, Kumaraswamy said that 2019 is an election of regional parties and that the Congress-JD(S) alliance will beat BJP. "Local leaders must cooperate to achieve the full potential of the alliance," Kumaraswamy said. The Karnataka Chief Minister strongly criticised BJP and said that it has an unofficial alliance with ED, CBI and Income Tax department. "Modi government is misusing the institutions. The raids on Opposition is part of political agenda and not good for democracy," he said. He also said that Pulwama was an intelligence failure and that Modi should be asked that how is he running the intelligence department of the country? "Modi is not going to come back to power. The nationalist rhetoric is not going to work in this election," said Kumaraswamy, adding that Congress president Rahul Gandhi has evolved into a mature politician. In a controversial remark, Kumaraswamy said, "Modi is not a humane person and vengeance in politics does not work well. I urge the young community in the country not to get swayed by speeches of the Prime Minister." He also admitted that he has received full cooperation from the Congress leaders, but the alliance needs to work well on the ground. He also said that he has a comfortable working relationship with former chief minister Siddaramaiah. The chief minister said that Hindutva will not work in the current elections as the job is the main issue on which the ruling government has failed miserably. Karnataka will vote in the second and third phases of Lok Sabha election, scheduled on April 18 and 23, respectively. (You can watch the full interview at 8.30 AM and 4.30 PM on Saturday, 9.30 and 1.30 PM on Sunday and 2.30 PM on Monday)

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