Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy on Monday said he was ready to step down, in what has become yet another indicator that all was not well in the Congress-JD(S) coalition.

According to reports Congress MLAs reportedly said: "Siddaramaiah is their leader".

Kumaraswamy said, "Congress MLAs say Siddaramaiah is their leader, Congress leaders have to watch all that issues, I'm not the concerned person for it. If they want to continue with it, I'm ready to step down. They're crossing the line... Congress leaders must control their MLAs."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy says "...If they want to continue with the same thing, I am ready to step down. They are crossing the line", when asked 'Congress MLAs are saying that Siddaramaiah is their CM'.' <a href="https://t.co/qwErh4aEq4">pic.twitter.com/qwErh4aEq4</a>
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Karnataka Dy CM on 'Congress MLAs say Siddaramaiah is their leader'': Siddaramaiah has been best CM. He is our CLP leader. For the MLA, he (Siddaramaiah) is the CM. He has expressed his opinion. What is wrong in that? We are all happy with him (Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy). <a href="https://t.co/bnvAUiM9OA">pic.twitter.com/bnvAUiM9OA</a>
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Denying that there was any trouble, Siddaramaiah said he will speak to Kumaraswamy to clear the air. "You (media) are the people who create trouble. You ask one person, then second person and then third person. There is no trouble," he told reporters.

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Former Karnataka CM &amp; Congress leader Siddaramaiah on 'Congress MLAs say Siddaramaiah is their leader': You (media) are the people who create trouble. You ask one person, then second person and then third person. There is no trouble, I will speak to HD Kumaraswamy <a href="https://t.co/Be7letrUrQ">pic.twitter.com/Be7letrUrQ</a>
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The rift between the Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) has been evident for months, and there has been speculation over how long the coalition government would survive in Karnataka.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy on Monday said he was ready to step down, in what has become yet another indicator that all was not well in the Congress-JD(S) coalition.

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy on Monday said he was ready to step down, in what has become yet another indicator that all was not well in the Congress-JD(S) coalition. According to reports Congress MLAs reportedly said: "Siddaramaiah is their leader". Kumaraswamy said, "Congress MLAs say Siddaramaiah is their leader, Congress leaders have to watch all that issues, I'm not the concerned person for it. If they want to continue with it, I'm ready to step down. They're crossing the line... Congress leaders must control their MLAs." #WATCH: Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy says "...If they want to continue with the same thing, I am ready to step down. They are crossing the line", when asked 'Congress MLAs are saying that Siddaramaiah is their CM'.' pic.twitter.com/qwErh4aEq4 — ANI (@ANI) January 28, 2019 × Karnataka Dy CM on 'Congress MLAs say Siddaramaiah is their leader'': Siddaramaiah has been best CM. He is our CLP leader. For the MLA, he (Siddaramaiah) is the CM. He has expressed his opinion. What is wrong in that? We are all happy with him (Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy). pic.twitter.com/bnvAUiM9OA — ANI (@ANI) January 28, 2019 × Denying that there was any trouble, Siddaramaiah said he will speak to Kumaraswamy to clear the air. "You (media) are the people who create trouble. You ask one person, then second person and then third person. There is no trouble," he told reporters. Former Karnataka CM & Congress leader Siddaramaiah on 'Congress MLAs say Siddaramaiah is their leader': You (media) are the people who create trouble. You ask one person, then second person and then third person. There is no trouble, I will speak to HD Kumaraswamy pic.twitter.com/Be7letrUrQ — ANI (@ANI) January 28, 2019 × The rift between the Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) has been evident for months, and there has been speculation over how long the coalition government would survive in Karnataka. (With inputs from ANI)

Congress MLAs crossing the line, I'm ready to step down: Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Wednesday said the Congress MLAs who are in Mumbai are constantly in touch with him and assured that the three legislators will come back.

Speaking to media in Bangaluru, Kumaraswamy reaffirmed that the Janata Dal (Secular)-Congress coalition is going on smoothly in Karnataka.

"MLAs (Congress MLAs in Mumbai hotel) are unreachable to the media, not to me. I am in touch with everybody and I am speaking to everybody, they will come back. Our coalition is going on smoothly. I was relaxed and I am relaxed. Don`t worry, be happy," the Chief Minister said.

The Congress had alleged that its three MLAs were taken to Mumbai by the BJP in an attempt to lure them into their fold.

The BJP, while dismissing these claims, alleged poaching attempts by the Congress.&nbsp;

The BJP, in fact, has housed all its 104 MLAs in a hotel in Gurugram, fearing poaching by the Congress.

The situation in Karnataka intensified on Tuesday after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-2-mlas-withdraw-support-to-congress-jds-govt-190470">two independent MLAs, H Nagesh and R Shankar, pulled out</a> of the JD(S)-Congress government.

Nagesh and Shankar wrote separate letters to the Governor conveying their decision to withdraw support to the government.

In the 224-member Assembly, JD(S) has 37 MLAs and its coalition partner has 80.&nbsp;

It has the support of some Independents in the House where the majority figure is 113.

The withdrawal of support by the two Independent MLAs will not affect the stability of the government but it comes against the backdrop of a political drama wherein the Congress and Opposition BJP are levelling charges of horse-trading. Meanwhile, Congress leaders KC Venugopal, Siddaramaiah, and Dinesh Gundu Rao are having a closed-door meeting at Kumara Krupa Guest House in Bengaluru.

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Wednesday said the Congress MLAs who are in Mumbai are constantly in touch with him and assured that the three legislators will come back.

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Wednesday said the Congress MLAs who are in Mumbai are constantly in touch with him and assured that the three legislators will come back. Speaking to media in Bangaluru, Kumaraswamy reaffirmed that the Janata Dal (Secular)-Congress coalition is going on smoothly in Karnataka. "MLAs (Congress MLAs in Mumbai hotel) are unreachable to the media, not to me. I am in touch with everybody and I am speaking to everybody, they will come back. Our coalition is going on smoothly. I was relaxed and I am relaxed. Don`t worry, be happy," the Chief Minister said. The Congress had alleged that its three MLAs were taken to Mumbai by the BJP in an attempt to lure them into their fold. The BJP, while dismissing these claims, alleged poaching attempts by the Congress. The BJP, in fact, has housed all its 104 MLAs in a hotel in Gurugram, fearing poaching by the Congress. The situation in Karnataka intensified on Tuesday after two independent MLAs, H Nagesh and R Shankar, pulled out of the JD(S)-Congress government. Nagesh and Shankar wrote separate letters to the Governor conveying their decision to withdraw support to the government. In the 224-member Assembly, JD(S) has 37 MLAs and its coalition partner has 80. It has the support of some Independents in the House where the majority figure is 113. The withdrawal of support by the two Independent MLAs will not affect the stability of the government but it comes against the backdrop of a political drama wherein the Congress and Opposition BJP are levelling charges of horse-trading. Meanwhile, Congress leaders KC Venugopal, Siddaramaiah, and Dinesh Gundu Rao are having a closed-door meeting at Kumara Krupa Guest House in Bengaluru.

Congress MLAs in Mumbai unreachable to media, not to me: Kumaraswamy

It was nothing less than a soap opera when 2018 Karnataka Assembly elections took a dramatic turn and despite BJP emerging as the single largest party, two arch rivals - Congress and JD(S) formed government in the state.

Putting aside their differences, the two parties came together to form the government even after BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa had taken oath as the chief minister.

The coalition won the trust vote and HD Kumaraswamy replaced Yeddyurappa as the chief minister. However, soon after the Congress-JD(S) alliance came to power, Kumaraswamy 'overflowing emotions' were at public display.

In May 2018, Kumaraswamy said that he was at mercy of the Congress because JD(S) did not get an absolute majority. A month later in July, the chief minister burst into tears at a public rally stating that he was not happy being in the top post and was swallowing the pain like ‘Vishakantha’ (Lord Shiva), who drank poison.

Downplaying Kumaraswamy's statements as mere emotional outbursts,&nbsp;JD(S) had then claimed that there was no rift between the coalition partners.

However, this time Kumaraswamy's statement on the murder of a JD(S) worker crossed all acceptable lines. The chief minister was caught on tape instructing someone (reportedly a police officer) to avenge the worker's killing.

"I don't know how you will handle it (the case).. because it was your responsibility. I am actually disappointed because it (the murder) brought a bad name. He (who was murdered) was a good person.. There is no problem if you shoot such people mercilessly," he was heard saying.

His party, thereafter, issued a clarification saying that it was an 'emotional reaction' and not orders. However, it's extremely irresponsible for a coalition head and chief minister to give provocative statements. Such remarks fuel the enmity between the rival groups. &nbsp;

Karnataka government, under the leadership of Kumaraswamy, is responsible&nbsp;for the law and order situation in the state, and not to instigate police and public.

A complaint filed against Kumaraswamy says that such emotional orders are uncalled for and a clear violation of constitutional provisions. The complaint termed the incident a scary development.

Meanwhile, his emotional statements didn't end here. At a recent&nbsp;event, Kumaraswamy swore on his son to assure farmers of waiving off their loans.

In his defence, Kumaraswamy says he is an emotional person, and thus, reacts on human-centric issues.&nbsp;

It was a godsend for both Congress and JD(S) to form a government in the state. The chief minister's emotional outbursts damage the government credibility. It affects not just his image but also of the alliance partner - Congress.

Furthermore, such tearful statements give a chance to the opposition to target the state government leaving the Congress red-faced. Earlier, senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah had urged Kumaraswamy to&nbsp;refrain from making emotional statements in public.

Several politicians from PM Narendra Modi to Rajya Sabha MP Jaya Bachchan have cried in public; In 2014, Modi broke down during his speech as the PM-elect in Central Hall of Parliament. Jaya Bachchan was speaking on Nirbhaya gangrape case when she choked and couldn't hold back her tears.

Breaking down on sensitive issues is a natural human reaction. However, making insensitive, provocative statements and shedding tears on a daily basis reflect political immaturity of Kumaraswamy who is making his tenure as a 'tragic era'. 
 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

It was nothing less than a soap opera when 2018 Karnataka Assembly elections took a dramatic turn and despite BJP emerging as the single largest party, two arch rivals - Congress and JD(S) formed government in the state.

It was nothing less than a soap opera when 2018 Karnataka Assembly elections took a dramatic turn and despite BJP emerging as the single largest party, two arch rivals - Congress and JD(S) formed government in the state. Putting aside their differences, the two parties came together to form the government even after BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa had taken oath as the chief minister. The coalition won the trust vote and HD Kumaraswamy replaced Yeddyurappa as the chief minister. However, soon after the Congress-JD(S) alliance came to power, Kumaraswamy 'overflowing emotions' were at public display. In May 2018, Kumaraswamy said that he was at mercy of the Congress because JD(S) did not get an absolute majority. A month later in July, the chief minister burst into tears at a public rally stating that he was not happy being in the top post and was swallowing the pain like ‘Vishakantha’ (Lord Shiva), who drank poison. Downplaying Kumaraswamy's statements as mere emotional outbursts, JD(S) had then claimed that there was no rift between the coalition partners. However, this time Kumaraswamy's statement on the murder of a JD(S) worker crossed all acceptable lines. The chief minister was caught on tape instructing someone (reportedly a police officer) to avenge the worker's killing. "I don't know how you will handle it (the case).. because it was your responsibility. I am actually disappointed because it (the murder) brought a bad name. He (who was murdered) was a good person.. There is no problem if you shoot such people mercilessly," he was heard saying. His party, thereafter, issued a clarification saying that it was an 'emotional reaction' and not orders. However, it's extremely irresponsible for a coalition head and chief minister to give provocative statements. Such remarks fuel the enmity between the rival groups. Karnataka government, under the leadership of Kumaraswamy, is responsible for the law and order situation in the state, and not to instigate police and public. A complaint filed against Kumaraswamy says that such emotional orders are uncalled for and a clear violation of constitutional provisions. The complaint termed the incident a scary development. Meanwhile, his emotional statements didn't end here. At a recent event, Kumaraswamy swore on his son to assure farmers of waiving off their loans. In his defence, Kumaraswamy says he is an emotional person, and thus, reacts on human-centric issues. It was a godsend for both Congress and JD(S) to form a government in the state. The chief minister's emotional outbursts damage the government credibility. It affects not just his image but also of the alliance partner - Congress. Furthermore, such tearful statements give a chance to the opposition to target the state government leaving the Congress red-faced. Earlier, senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah had urged Kumaraswamy to refrain from making emotional statements in public. Several politicians from PM Narendra Modi to Rajya Sabha MP Jaya Bachchan have cried in public; In 2014, Modi broke down during his speech as the PM-elect in Central Hall of Parliament. Jaya Bachchan was speaking on Nirbhaya gangrape case when she choked and couldn't hold back her tears. Breaking down on sensitive issues is a natural human reaction. However, making insensitive, provocative statements and shedding tears on a daily basis reflect political immaturity of Kumaraswamy who is making his tenure as a 'tragic era'. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Mr Kumaraswamy, stop making emotional statements and start behaving like a CM

Karnataka Chief Minister H D KumaraswamyFriday said his government would not protect anyone involved in illegal activities, as he flayed the BJP for accusing him of "adjustment" by not acting on a legislature panel report on alleged irregularities in the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor project.

"I have seen that a BJP MLA while demanding action based on House Committee on NICE, has accused me of adjustment (in the case). They (BJP) are the ones who taught me adjustment politics," Kumaraswamy told reporters here.

Kumaraswamy said during the tenure of the BJP-JD(S) coalition government in 2006 headed by him, when he brought a subject before the cabinet to scrap the project, BJP ministers had boycotted it.

"Where was their commitment then?" he asked.

State BJP general secretary and MLA C T Ravi Thursday had demanded that the coalition government implement the House committee report on alleged irregularities in the implementation of the Bangalore-Mysore Infrastructure Corridor project (BMIC) by Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprises(NICE).

He had reportedly accused Kumaraswamy and his government of "adjustment" in the case.

Kumaraswamy said, his government will not protect anyone involved in illegal activity related cases.

"It has just been five-and-half months after this coalition government coming to power, give us some time. How we will work, how our programmes are...By implementing our programmes we will answer them. I need not do politics by adjustment," he said.

Asked if the government will act on the House committee report, the chief minister said, the report is yet to be accepted by the Assembly.

"There is time, we will take decision accordingly."

In its report tabled in the Assembly in December 2016, the 11-member committee, headed by the then Law ministerJayachandra to look into the alleged violations, concluded that 16 of 22 articles in the framework agreement had been violated by the private partner NICE.

It had also recommended an inquiry by CBI, Enforcement Directorate (ED), the vigilance commission or an investigative agency of equal standing.

NICE is the implementing agency of the BMIC project, which includes developing the 111-km four-lane expressway, five townships and supporting infrastructure.

Former MLA and businessman Ashok Kheny is the Managing Director of Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprise Limited. He joined the Congress ahead of assembly polls in May.

While in opposition, Kumaraswamy and his party were staunch critics of the BMIC project and had demanded action based on the House panel report.

Karnataka Chief Minister H D KumaraswamyFriday said his government would not protect anyone involved in illegal activities, as he flayed the BJP for accusing him of "adjustment" by not acting on a legislature panel report on alleged irregularities in the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor project.

Karnataka Chief Minister H D KumaraswamyFriday said his government would not protect anyone involved in illegal activities, as he flayed the BJP for accusing him of "adjustment" by not acting on a legislature panel report on alleged irregularities in the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor project. "I have seen that a BJP MLA while demanding action based on House Committee on NICE, has accused me of adjustment (in the case). They (BJP) are the ones who taught me adjustment politics," Kumaraswamy told reporters here. Kumaraswamy said during the tenure of the BJP-JD(S) coalition government in 2006 headed by him, when he brought a subject before the cabinet to scrap the project, BJP ministers had boycotted it. "Where was their commitment then?" he asked. State BJP general secretary and MLA C T Ravi Thursday had demanded that the coalition government implement the House committee report on alleged irregularities in the implementation of the Bangalore-Mysore Infrastructure Corridor project (BMIC) by Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprises(NICE). He had reportedly accused Kumaraswamy and his government of "adjustment" in the case. Kumaraswamy said, his government will not protect anyone involved in illegal activity related cases. "It has just been five-and-half months after this coalition government coming to power, give us some time. How we will work, how our programmes are...By implementing our programmes we will answer them. I need not do politics by adjustment," he said. Asked if the government will act on the House committee report, the chief minister said, the report is yet to be accepted by the Assembly. "There is time, we will take decision accordingly." In its report tabled in the Assembly in December 2016, the 11-member committee, headed by the then Law ministerJayachandra to look into the alleged violations, concluded that 16 of 22 articles in the framework agreement had been violated by the private partner NICE. It had also recommended an inquiry by CBI, Enforcement Directorate (ED), the vigilance commission or an investigative agency of equal standing. NICE is the implementing agency of the BMIC project, which includes developing the 111-km four-lane expressway, five townships and supporting infrastructure. Former MLA and businessman Ashok Kheny is the Managing Director of Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprise Limited. He joined the Congress ahead of assembly polls in May. While in opposition, Kumaraswamy and his party were staunch critics of the BMIC project and had demanded action based on the House panel report.

None involved in illegal activities would be protected: Kumaraswamy

BJP leader B S Yeddyurappa today claimed that several disgruntled leaders from the ruling Congress and JD(S) are eager to join his party.

Yeddyurappa's comments come as dissident activities of the MLAs intensified in the Congress over not getting ministerial berths.

The former chief minister, who is also the state BJP chief, asked his partymen to work as a strong opposition and prepare for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

"Several disgruntled young leaders and leaders from Congress and JD(S) are eager to join the BJP," Yeddyurappa said.

Addressing partymen, he said, "It is our responsibility to induct those who are disgruntled with the JD(S) and Congress and their style of administration in every assembly segment, and are willing to join the BJP, thereby strengthening the party in every constituency."

The BJP leader said the party has "complete strength" with 104 members in the assembly and "let's work as a "strong opposition."

"How long this government will function is a different matter, but without aspiring for seat of power, let us all 104 members work as successful opposition to our good work."

As the assembly polls threw up hung assembly with the BJP emerging as the single largest party, the BJP had formed the government but conceded the numbers game with Yeddyurappa resigning on May 19 without facing the trust vote.

Following this, Congress-JD(S) post-poll coalition formed the government in the state, under the leadership of HD Kumaraswamy.

Calling upon BJP Yuva Morcha to strengthen the organisation at every assembly constituency level, Yeddyurappa said that "by doing this let us prepare ourselves for the Lok Sabha election."

With his government facing birth pangs of coalition politics, Kumaraswamy yesterday stepped in to check the disquiet among newly elected Congress lawmakers who were left out during the Cabinet expansion, but they remained defiant.

Yeddyurappa's comments come as dissident activities of the MLAs intensified in the Congress over not getting ministerial berths

BJP leader B S Yeddyurappa today claimed that several disgruntled leaders from the ruling Congress and JD(S) are eager to join his party. Yeddyurappa's comments come as dissident activities of the MLAs intensified in the Congress over not getting ministerial berths. The former chief minister, who is also the state BJP chief, asked his partymen to work as a strong opposition and prepare for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. "Several disgruntled young leaders and leaders from Congress and JD(S) are eager to join the BJP," Yeddyurappa said. Addressing partymen, he said, "It is our responsibility to induct those who are disgruntled with the JD(S) and Congress and their style of administration in every assembly segment, and are willing to join the BJP, thereby strengthening the party in every constituency." The BJP leader said the party has "complete strength" with 104 members in the assembly and "let's work as a "strong opposition." "How long this government will function is a different matter, but without aspiring for seat of power, let us all 104 members work as successful opposition to our good work." As the assembly polls threw up hung assembly with the BJP emerging as the single largest party, the BJP had formed the government but conceded the numbers game with Yeddyurappa resigning on May 19 without facing the trust vote. Following this, Congress-JD(S) post-poll coalition formed the government in the state, under the leadership of HD Kumaraswamy. Calling upon BJP Yuva Morcha to strengthen the organisation at every assembly constituency level, Yeddyurappa said that "by doing this let us prepare ourselves for the Lok Sabha election." With his government facing birth pangs of coalition politics, Kumaraswamy yesterday stepped in to check the disquiet among newly elected Congress lawmakers who were left out during the Cabinet expansion, but they remained defiant.

Several Congress, JDS MLAs willing to join BJP: Yeddyurappa

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Friday confirmed that tension still looms among Congress leaders with regards to the state cabinet berth allocation.

However, the newly-elected chief minister said he is confident that the Congress party will take the right decision in this regard.

"Yes, there is some tension there (regarding portfolio allocation), but I am confident that the Congress leaders will take the right decision," he told reporters here.

On June 7, Congress party workers protested as expectant candidates Roshan Baig and Ramalinga Reddy were not given ministerial berths.

While the grand old party was given charge of 22 ministries, including home, irrigation, health, agriculture and women and child welfare ministries 12 ministries, including finance and excise, public works department, education, tourism and transport ministries were allocated to the Janata Dal (Secular).

Apart from Baig and Reddy, the expectant candidates from the Congress party who were dropped from the cabinet include MB&nbsp;Patil, Dinesh Gundu Rao, HK&nbsp;Patil, Shyamnur Shivashankarappa, Tanvir Sait, Satish Jarkhiholi, NA&nbsp;Harris, Dr

Sudhakar, Rahim Khan, Bhyrati Basavaraju, S&nbsp;Shivalli, Satish Jarakiholi, Eshwar Khandre and MTB&nbsp;Nagaraj.&nbsp;

On June 7, Congress party workers protested as expectant candidates Roshan Baig and Ramalinga Reddy were not given ministerial berths

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Friday confirmed that tension still looms among Congress leaders with regards to the state cabinet berth allocation. However, the newly-elected chief minister said he is confident that the Congress party will take the right decision in this regard. "Yes, there is some tension there (regarding portfolio allocation), but I am confident that the Congress leaders will take the right decision," he told reporters here. On June 7, Congress party workers protested as expectant candidates Roshan Baig and Ramalinga Reddy were not given ministerial berths. While the grand old party was given charge of 22 ministries, including home, irrigation, health, agriculture and women and child welfare ministries 12 ministries, including finance and excise, public works department, education, tourism and transport ministries were allocated to the Janata Dal (Secular). Apart from Baig and Reddy, the expectant candidates from the Congress party who were dropped from the cabinet include MB Patil, Dinesh Gundu Rao, HK Patil, Shyamnur Shivashankarappa, Tanvir Sait, Satish Jarkhiholi, NA Harris, Dr Sudhakar, Rahim Khan, Bhyrati Basavaraju, S Shivalli, Satish Jarakiholi, Eshwar Khandre and MTB Nagaraj.

Tension regarding portfolio allocation exists, says Kumaraswamy

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has instructed its officials to cut down all unnecessary expenditure, if any, in the administration to strengthen the state's financial status.

In an official statement by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), it asked the officers to review the proposals submitted by various government departments, offices and agencies to buy new cars.

Similarly, he also has directed to discourage unnecessary refurbishing and renovating of Government' offices and official residences.

On June 1, Kumaraswamy directed all officials and government staff to not use mobile phones during his meetings to avoid distraction.

Kumaraswamy, in the order, stated that some officials use cell phones during the meeting, which affects discussions on important matters.

The chief minister's decision came 11 days after he took charge on May 23 and held only a few meetings with the officials.

In an official statement by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), it asked the officers to review the proposals submitted by various government departments, offices and agencies to buy new cars.

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has instructed its officials to cut down all unnecessary expenditure, if any, in the administration to strengthen the state's financial status. In an official statement by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), it asked the officers to review the proposals submitted by various government departments, offices and agencies to buy new cars. Similarly, he also has directed to discourage unnecessary refurbishing and renovating of Government' offices and official residences. On June 1, Kumaraswamy directed all officials and government staff to not use mobile phones during his meetings to avoid distraction. Kumaraswamy, in the order, stated that some officials use cell phones during the meeting, which affects discussions on important matters. The chief minister's decision came 11 days after he took charge on May 23 and held only a few meetings with the officials.

Kumaraswamy instructs Karnataka officials to cut down unnecessary expenditure

Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy said on Monday that he was committed to wive farm loans and was ready with guidelines.

The Karnataka chief minister said he would retire from politics if he was unable to waive off the farmer's loans.

"Committed to waive farm loans, else will retire from politics. I'm ready with guidelines," said Kumaraswamy.

&nbspAs many as 3,515 farmers have committed suicide between April 2013 and November 2017 in Karnataka.

A majority of these suicides have been because of drought and farm failure as per the statistics provided by the State Agriculture Department.&nbsp

The previous Siddaramaiah-led Congress government had taken steps that included asking banks not to force farmers to repay their dues and turn their short and medium-term crop loans into long-term loans with the waiver of interest. However, the government was accused of failing to solve the agrarian crisis.

 
&nbsp

The Karnataka chief minister said he ready with guidelines on farmers' loans

Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy said on Monday that he was committed to wive farm loans and was ready with guidelines. The Karnataka chief minister said he would retire from politics if he was unable to waive off the farmer's loans. "Committed to waive farm loans, else will retire from politics. I'm ready with guidelines," said Kumaraswamy. &nbspAs many as 3,515 farmers have committed suicide between April 2013 and November 2017 in Karnataka. A majority of these suicides have been because of drought and farm failure as per the statistics provided by the State Agriculture Department. The previous Siddaramaiah-led Congress government had taken steps that included asking banks not to force farmers to repay their dues and turn their short and medium-term crop loans into long-term loans with the waiver of interest. However, the government was accused of failing to solve the agrarian crisis.

Will waive farmers' loans or leave politics: Karnataka CM Kumaraswamy

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kumaraswamy-to-face-floor-test-today-congress-jds-legislators-still-in-hotel--139553">Kumaraswamy to face floor test today Congress-JD(S) legislators still in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kumaraswamy-to-face-floor-test-today-congress-jds-legislators-still-in-hotel--139553">hotel</a>

With a hope of putting an end to the political turmoil prevailing in Karnataka over the government formation, newly sworn-in Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy will face a floor test on Friday to prove his majority.

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&nbsp

Kumaraswamy to face floor test today Congress-JD(S) legislators still in hotel With a hope of putting an end to the political turmoil prevailing in Karnataka over the government formation, newly sworn-in Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy will face a floor test on Friday to prove his majority. 'BJP is soaking up most of political funding': Shashi Tharoor A day after acknowledging that the Congress party was indeed facing a funding crunch, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Friday said that BJP is soaking up most of the political funding, partly because the money goes to those who are in power. Morgan Freeman apologises as multiple women accuse him of sexual harassment at work In a shocking update from the world of entertainment, Hollywood star Morgan Freeman who is known for giving stellar performances in every movie he does -- has been accused of inappropriate behaviour and harassment by multiple women who have worked with him. No relief in sight as petrol, diesel prices hit a new high Commuters are unlikely to get any relief from soaring oil prices today also as petrol and diesel on Friday morning hit an all-time high in the last five days. Petrol price per litre in Delhi was recorded at Rs 77.83. For Mumbai petrol per litre was registered at Rs 85.65, Rs 80.47 in Kolkata and Rs 80.80 per litre in Chennai. Ireland votes in 'once-in-a-generation' abortion referendum Ireland votes on Friday in an abortion referendum that could be a milestone on a path of change in a country that, only a few decades ago, was one of Europe's most socially conservative.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy today said the JD(S) along with Congress had succeeded in tying Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Ashwamedha' horse (victory horse) in Karnataka, fulfilling his aim.

"I had said after the Uttar Pradesh election results came out that my aim is to tie the Ashwamwedha horse of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah (BJP President). Today both Congress and JD(S) together have tied their Ashwamedha horse in Karnataka," Kumaraswamy said.

Calling himself a "child of circumstances," Kumaraswamy said he decided to join hands with the Congress on the advice of several political leaders in the "national interest."

Speaking to reporters after being sworn-in as chief minister, he said "Probably, in the days to come, Amit Shah has to go to Narendra Modi with lifeless Ashwamedha horse, as we have tied their horse."

He said many people were having doubts about whether the coalition government would last and assured them that he would provide a stable government.

"There is doubt whether this government will last long. With my conduct and that of my government, I will ensure that this opinion will change.

I want to make it clear to the people of the state," he said.

Conceding that people had these doubts because the JDS broke away from the Congress in 2006 to form a government with BJP, Kumaraswamy said "...The nature of our (JDS, Congress) relationship thereafter has led to a doubt about our confidence in each other, and can we work together."

"I want to tell people of the state that this government will be a stable one. This coalition government will be more stable than one party government.

We will not give chance for any differences and we will work to solve the problems of the state," he added.

JD(S) that had fought bitterly against the Congress, especially in old Mysuru region, had to join hands to keep BJP out of power in Karnataka, where the May 12 assembly polls threw up a hung assembly.

Pointing out that he had said before the election that if no party gets the majority, he would sit in the opposition and would not reach understanding with any party, Kumaraswamy called himself a "child of circumstances."

"I'm a child of circumstances it was unavoidable for me to keep aside my personal wishes and decisions," he said.

The Chief Minister said, several national leaders after the assembly election results advised him to form the government withCongress, keeping the national interest in mind.

Citing the presence of several political leaders at the swearing-in ceremony, Kumaraswamy said "they all coming together makes me feel, it is a new development.

With their coming together for the ceremony, you may understand why I called myself a child of circumstances," he added.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi, his mother and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, N Chandrababu Naidu, and Pinarayi Vijayan, her counterparts in Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala respectively, were present.

Tejashwi Yadav, the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar assembly, BSP chief Mayawati and SP leader Akhilesh Yadav, who has struck an alliance in Uttar Pradesh, NCP leader Sharad Pawar, CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechury, and socialist leader Sharad Yadav were also in attendance.

The show of strength by a galaxy of national leaders and regional satraps is being seen as a strong signal to the BJP about the possibility of formation of a broad-based front to take on the BJP-led NDA in the Lok Sabha polls next year.

Admitting that there were challenges ahead of him, Kumaraswamy said "it will not be easy for me to run this government easily. I will have to take every step with caution, that is the situation."

He said many leaders feel that under his leadership the new government would prove to be a "model government."

"I will try to keep up their trust and that of people in me and I will go ahead," Kumaraswamy said.

Calling himself a 'child of circumstances,' Kumaraswamy said he decided to join hands with the Congress on the advice of several political leaders in the 'national interest'

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy today said the JD(S) along with Congress had succeeded in tying Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Ashwamedha' horse (victory horse) in Karnataka, fulfilling his aim. "I had said after the Uttar Pradesh election results came out that my aim is to tie the Ashwamwedha horse of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah (BJP President). Today both Congress and JD(S) together have tied their Ashwamedha horse in Karnataka," Kumaraswamy said. Calling himself a "child of circumstances," Kumaraswamy said he decided to join hands with the Congress on the advice of several political leaders in the "national interest." Speaking to reporters after being sworn-in as chief minister, he said "Probably, in the days to come, Amit Shah has to go to Narendra Modi with lifeless Ashwamedha horse, as we have tied their horse." He said many people were having doubts about whether the coalition government would last and assured them that he would provide a stable government. "There is doubt whether this government will last long. With my conduct and that of my government, I will ensure that this opinion will change. I want to make it clear to the people of the state," he said. Conceding that people had these doubts because the JDS broke away from the Congress in 2006 to form a government with BJP, Kumaraswamy said "...The nature of our (JDS, Congress) relationship thereafter has led to a doubt about our confidence in each other, and can we work together." "I want to tell people of the state that this government will be a stable one. This coalition government will be more stable than one party government. We will not give chance for any differences and we will work to solve the problems of the state," he added. JD(S) that had fought bitterly against the Congress, especially in old Mysuru region, had to join hands to keep BJP out of power in Karnataka, where the May 12 assembly polls threw up a hung assembly. Pointing out that he had said before the election that if no party gets the majority, he would sit in the opposition and would not reach understanding with any party, Kumaraswamy called himself a "child of circumstances." "I'm a child of circumstances it was unavoidable for me to keep aside my personal wishes and decisions," he said. The Chief Minister said, several national leaders after the assembly election results advised him to form the government withCongress, keeping the national interest in mind. Citing the presence of several political leaders at the swearing-in ceremony, Kumaraswamy said "they all coming together makes me feel, it is a new development. With their coming together for the ceremony, you may understand why I called myself a child of circumstances," he added. Congress president Rahul Gandhi, his mother and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, N Chandrababu Naidu, and Pinarayi Vijayan, her counterparts in Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala respectively, were present. Tejashwi Yadav, the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar assembly, BSP chief Mayawati and SP leader Akhilesh Yadav, who has struck an alliance in Uttar Pradesh, NCP leader Sharad Pawar, CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechury, and socialist leader Sharad Yadav were also in attendance. The show of strength by a galaxy of national leaders and regional satraps is being seen as a strong signal to the BJP about the possibility of formation of a broad-based front to take on the BJP-led NDA in the Lok Sabha polls next year. Admitting that there were challenges ahead of him, Kumaraswamy said "it will not be easy for me to run this government easily. I will have to take every step with caution, that is the situation." He said many leaders feel that under his leadership the new government would prove to be a "model government." "I will try to keep up their trust and that of people in me and I will go ahead," Kumaraswamy said.

We have tied 'Ashwamedha' horse of Modi: Kumaraswamy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday congratulated HD Kumaraswamy on taking oath as the Karnataka chief minister and extended the best wishes on his new assignment.

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I congratulate Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/hd_kumaraswamy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hd_kumaraswamy</a> Ji and <a href="https://twitter.com/DrParameshwara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrParameshwara</a> Ji on taking oath as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. My best wishes for their tenure ahead.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/999273840361517056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"I congratulate Shri @hd_kumaraswamy Ji and @DrParameshwara Ji on taking oath as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. My best wishes for their tenure ahead," he tweeted.

Kumaraswamy was sworn in as the Karnataka chief minister at the head of a JD(S)-Congress coalition government.

The show of strength by a galaxy of national leaders and regional satraps at the ceremony is being seen as a strong signal to the BJP about the possibility of formation of a broad-based front to take on the NDA in the Lok Sabha polls next year.

The BJP boycotted the ceremony and observed a "Black Day". It held protests across Karnataka against the new coalition government, which it called "unholy".

Kumaraswamy was sworn in as the Karnataka chief minister at the head of a JD(S)-Congress coalition government.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday congratulated HD Kumaraswamy on taking oath as the Karnataka chief minister and extended the best wishes on his new assignment. I congratulate Shri @hd_kumaraswamy Ji and @DrParameshwara Ji on taking oath as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. My best wishes for their tenure ahead. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 23, 2018 × "I congratulate Shri @hd_kumaraswamy Ji and @DrParameshwara Ji on taking oath as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. My best wishes for their tenure ahead," he tweeted. Kumaraswamy was sworn in as the Karnataka chief minister at the head of a JD(S)-Congress coalition government. The show of strength by a galaxy of national leaders and regional satraps at the ceremony is being seen as a strong signal to the BJP about the possibility of formation of a broad-based front to take on the NDA in the Lok Sabha polls next year. The BJP boycotted the ceremony and observed a "Black Day". It held protests across Karnataka against the new coalition government, which it called "unholy".

PM Modi congratulates Kumaraswamy

Karnataka chief minister-designate HD Kumaraswamy acknowledged on Tuesday that running the Congress-JD(S) coalition government over the next five years will be a "big challenge" for him.

"This is a big challenge in my life. I'm not expecting that I will be able to fulfil my responsibilities as chief minister easily," Kumaraswamy, who will be sworn in tomorrow, said.

Kumaraswamy, who was in Sringeri, the place where Adi Shankaracharya, exponent of the Advaita Vedanta philosophy, established his first matha, said he believed that things would go smoothly with the grace of Goddess Shardambe and the Jagadguru.

"People also have doubts, not only me, people in the state also have doubt whether this government will function smoothly. But I have belief that with the grace of Sharadambe and Sringeri jagadguru (Shankaracharya) everything will go smoothly," he told reporters.

Kumaraswamy today visited Sringeri Sharada temple and Dakshinamnaya Peetham established by Adi Shankaracharya.

He also paid obeisance at the famous Manjunathaswamy temple at Dharmasthala.

The official invitation for the oath-taking ceremony, meanwhile, indicated that besides Kumaraswamy, some others would be sworn in tomorrow. It said apart from the chief minister, the oath was to be administered to the council of ministers.&nbsp

Earlier reports had said only Kumaraswamy will take oath tomorrow, while the rest will be sworn in after the floor test on Thursday.&nbsp

After the fall of the three-day-old BJP government on May 19, governor Vajubhai Vala had invited Kumaraswamy, the leader of the Congress-JD(S) alliance, to form the government in Karnataka.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi, his mother and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, BSP supremo Mayawati, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu, his Telangana counterpart K Chandrasekhar Rao and several other regional leaders are likely to attend the ceremony

I'm not expecting that I will be able to fulfil my responsibilities as easily, Kumaraswamy said.

Karnataka chief minister-designate HD Kumaraswamy acknowledged on Tuesday that running the Congress-JD(S) coalition government over the next five years will be a "big challenge" for him. "This is a big challenge in my life. I'm not expecting that I will be able to fulfil my responsibilities as chief minister easily," Kumaraswamy, who will be sworn in tomorrow, said. Kumaraswamy, who was in Sringeri, the place where Adi Shankaracharya, exponent of the Advaita Vedanta philosophy, established his first matha, said he believed that things would go smoothly with the grace of Goddess Shardambe and the Jagadguru. "People also have doubts, not only me, people in the state also have doubt whether this government will function smoothly. But I have belief that with the grace of Sharadambe and Sringeri jagadguru (Shankaracharya) everything will go smoothly," he told reporters. Kumaraswamy today visited Sringeri Sharada temple and Dakshinamnaya Peetham established by Adi Shankaracharya. He also paid obeisance at the famous Manjunathaswamy temple at Dharmasthala. The official invitation for the oath-taking ceremony, meanwhile, indicated that besides Kumaraswamy, some others would be sworn in tomorrow. It said apart from the chief minister, the oath was to be administered to the council of ministers. Earlier reports had said only Kumaraswamy will take oath tomorrow, while the rest will be sworn in after the floor test on Thursday. After the fall of the three-day-old BJP government on May 19, governor Vajubhai Vala had invited Kumaraswamy, the leader of the Congress-JD(S) alliance, to form the government in Karnataka. Congress president Rahul Gandhi, his mother and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, BSP supremo Mayawati, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu, his Telangana counterpart K Chandrasekhar Rao and several other regional leaders are likely to attend the ceremony

Running Congress-JD(S) coalition government will be a big challenge: Kumaraswamy

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HD Kumaraswamy, who will be sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka on Wednesday, will be in Delhi today to meet Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

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Kumaraswamy to meet Sonia, Rahul today in Delhi Cong may get 20 seats in Karnataka cabinet, JD(S) 13 HD Kumaraswamy, who will be sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka on Wednesday, will be in Delhi today to meet Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi. Trump says his presidential campaign was spied on, demands probe US President Donald Trump demanded Sunday that the Justice Department investigate whether his presidential campaign was "infiltrated" or spied on for political purposes, prompting it to announce it would look into those issues. North Korea installing viewing stands for audience to watch dismantling of nuclear test site North Korea has now decided to set up stands for viewers to watch the dismantling of its nuclear test site through satellite imagery between Wednesday (May 23) and Friday (May 25). Delhi: Teen domestic help asks for salary, is chopped into pieces A 16-year-old girl was killed and her body was chopped into three pieces by the person who had brought her from Jharkhand to get her employed as a domestic help in Delhi, after she demanded her salary, police said on Sunday. Delhi: Brazil woman who swallowed 106 cocaine pills caught at airport A 25-year-old Brazilian woman was arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau from Indira Gandhi International Airport after she was caught smuggling cocaine that she had swallowed

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday said that he had a warm and cordial meeting with JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy in New Delhi.

"I had a warm and cordial meeting this evening, in Delhi, with Shri H D Kumaraswamy Ji. We discussed the political situation in Karnataka and other matters of mutual interest. I will be attending his swearing-in as CM of Karnataka, on Wednesday, in Bengaluru," he tweeted.

Meanwhile, Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) leader HD Kumaraswamy said that he is confident that the yet-to-be sworn in the coalition government with the Congress in Karnataka will be stable.

HD Kumaraswamy spoke to reporters on the question of who will become Deputy chief minister of Karnataka.

"I wanted to show my respect & regards to Gandhi family. That's why I came here. I requested them for further presence in oath taking ceremony. Both of them agreed to be present at the oath-taking ceremony," said HD Kumaraswamy, Karnataka CM designate after meeting Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> CM designate HD Kumaraswamy met Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Delhi. JD(S) Danish Ali and Congress's KC Venugopal also present. <a href="https://t.co/Qqqf3PFJQ4">pic.twitter.com/Qqqf3PFJQ4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/998558102067671040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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ANI quoted him as saying that Rahul Gandhi has given permission to Congress general secretary KC Venugopal to finalise everything.&nbsp;

He further said that Rahul would carry out a discussion with local leaders and finalise the issue.

HD Kumaraswamy spoke to reporters on the question of who will become Deputy chief minister of Karnataka.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday said that he had a warm and cordial meeting with JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy in New Delhi. "I had a warm and cordial meeting this evening, in Delhi, with Shri H D Kumaraswamy Ji. We discussed the political situation in Karnataka and other matters of mutual interest. I will be attending his swearing-in as CM of Karnataka, on Wednesday, in Bengaluru," he tweeted. Meanwhile, Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) leader HD Kumaraswamy said that he is confident that the yet-to-be sworn in the coalition government with the Congress in Karnataka will be stable. HD Kumaraswamy spoke to reporters on the question of who will become Deputy chief minister of Karnataka. "I wanted to show my respect & regards to Gandhi family. That's why I came here. I requested them for further presence in oath taking ceremony. Both of them agreed to be present at the oath-taking ceremony," said HD Kumaraswamy, Karnataka CM designate after meeting Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. #Karnataka CM designate HD Kumaraswamy met Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Delhi. JD(S) Danish Ali and Congress's KC Venugopal also present. pic.twitter.com/Qqqf3PFJQ4 — ANI (@ANI) May 21, 2018 × ANI quoted him as saying that Rahul Gandhi has given permission to Congress general secretary KC Venugopal to finalise everything. He further said that Rahul would carry out a discussion with local leaders and finalise the issue.

Warm and cordial meeting with Kumaraswamy, says Rahul Gandhi

HD Kumaraswamy, who will be sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka on Wednesday, will be in Delhi today to meet Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy and the Gandhis will discuss the nitty gritties of government formation in the southern state.&nbsp;

News reports said Monday that the Congress — which has 78 MLAs, the JD(S) now has 37 after Kumaraswamy gave up the second seat he contested from — is expected to end up with 20 ministers in the 33-member cabinet.&nbsp;

News reports added that Karnataka could get two deputy chief ministers. It had earlier been decided that the deputy chief ministership would go to a Dalit, with the Congress's G Parameshwara expected to fill the post.&nbsp;

There has now been a second demand for a Lingayat to be made deputy chief minister, which may lead to the state having two of them.&nbsp;

The reports added that the Congress would make no demands of the JD(S) in order to keep the coalition stable.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Kumaraswamy termed reports of a power-sharing formula of 30 months each between the two parties as "bogus".

"I'm visiting New Delhi tomorrow...I will meet Congress President Rahul Gandhi and the party's senior leader Sonia Gandhi," he told reporters in Bengaluru.

Based on the outcome of discussions with them, a decision will be taken on the number of Congress and JD(S) MLAs who will become ministers, Kumaraswamy added.

BS Yeddyurappa had on Saturday stepped down as the chief minister without facing the floor test in the state assembly as the BJP fell short of numbers, following which Kumaraswamy met Governor Vajubhai Vala, and said he had been invited to form the government.

The May 12 Karnataka assembly polls threw up a hung assembly, with the BJP emerging as the single largest party with 104 seats.

While making it clear that there have been no discussions yet on the portfolio allocation, Kumaraswamy requested the media not to create confusion among the public and MLAs with such "speculative" reports.

He also asserted that within 24 hours of taking oath, he would prove his majority on the floor of the House.

"Mostly on Wednesday there will be oath-taking ceremony after that on Thursday we will complete the process of Speaker's election and trust vote," he added.

After meeting the governor, Kumaraswamy had said the swearing-in ceremony would take place tentatively between 12 noon and 1.50 pm at Kanteerava stadium on May 21.

But, later he announced that the event would be held on May 23 as May 21 happens to be the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

The venue of the swearing-in is also likely to be changed, with party sources now saying it is likely to take place at Vidhana Soudha (the seat of the state legislature).

However, Kumaraswamy said he had spoken to the Chief Secretary and other senior officials about it and they would take a call on the venue.

Kumaraswamy met his father and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda at his residence on Sunday and later visited the hotel where JD(S) MLAs are camping and held a meeting with them.

Asked about reports on power-sharing formula of 30 months each that is being worked out with the Congress, Kumaraswamy said, "No such talks have taken place."

On reports about parleys with Congress leaders regarding elections in Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagar assembly constituencies, Kumarasamy described it as "bogus".

"It is a bogus news...No such discussions have taken place. Winning Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagara is a necessity. Till now, no such discussions have happened," he said.

While polling was deferred in Rajarajeshwari Nagar constituency over allegations of electoral malpractice, election to Jayanagar seat was countermanded following the death of the BJP candidate.

(With inputs from PTI)

Kumaraswamy will be sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka on Wednesday. He is expected to take his floor test on Thursday

HD Kumaraswamy, who will be sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka on Wednesday, will be in Delhi today to meet Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi. Kumaraswamy and the Gandhis will discuss the nitty gritties of government formation in the southern state. News reports said Monday that the Congress — which has 78 MLAs, the JD(S) now has 37 after Kumaraswamy gave up the second seat he contested from — is expected to end up with 20 ministers in the 33-member cabinet. News reports added that Karnataka could get two deputy chief ministers. It had earlier been decided that the deputy chief ministership would go to a Dalit, with the Congress's G Parameshwara expected to fill the post. There has now been a second demand for a Lingayat to be made deputy chief minister, which may lead to the state having two of them. The reports added that the Congress would make no demands of the JD(S) in order to keep the coalition stable. On Sunday, Kumaraswamy termed reports of a power-sharing formula of 30 months each between the two parties as "bogus". "I'm visiting New Delhi tomorrow...I will meet Congress President Rahul Gandhi and the party's senior leader Sonia Gandhi," he told reporters in Bengaluru. Based on the outcome of discussions with them, a decision will be taken on the number of Congress and JD(S) MLAs who will become ministers, Kumaraswamy added. BS Yeddyurappa had on Saturday stepped down as the chief minister without facing the floor test in the state assembly as the BJP fell short of numbers, following which Kumaraswamy met Governor Vajubhai Vala, and said he had been invited to form the government. The May 12 Karnataka assembly polls threw up a hung assembly, with the BJP emerging as the single largest party with 104 seats. While making it clear that there have been no discussions yet on the portfolio allocation, Kumaraswamy requested the media not to create confusion among the public and MLAs with such "speculative" reports. He also asserted that within 24 hours of taking oath, he would prove his majority on the floor of the House. "Mostly on Wednesday there will be oath-taking ceremony after that on Thursday we will complete the process of Speaker's election and trust vote," he added. After meeting the governor, Kumaraswamy had said the swearing-in ceremony would take place tentatively between 12 noon and 1.50 pm at Kanteerava stadium on May 21. But, later he announced that the event would be held on May 23 as May 21 happens to be the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The venue of the swearing-in is also likely to be changed, with party sources now saying it is likely to take place at Vidhana Soudha (the seat of the state legislature). However, Kumaraswamy said he had spoken to the Chief Secretary and other senior officials about it and they would take a call on the venue. Kumaraswamy met his father and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda at his residence on Sunday and later visited the hotel where JD(S) MLAs are camping and held a meeting with them. Asked about reports on power-sharing formula of 30 months each that is being worked out with the Congress, Kumaraswamy said, "No such talks have taken place." On reports about parleys with Congress leaders regarding elections in Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagar assembly constituencies, Kumarasamy described it as "bogus". "It is a bogus news...No such discussions have taken place. Winning Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagara is a necessity. Till now, no such discussions have happened," he said. While polling was deferred in Rajarajeshwari Nagar constituency over allegations of electoral malpractice, election to Jayanagar seat was countermanded following the death of the BJP candidate. (With inputs from PTI)

Kumaraswamy to meet Sonia, Rahul Gandhi today in Delhi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-is-true-i-had-spoken-to-a-few-of-them-yeddyurappa-admits-he-asked-opposition-mlas-to-cross-vote-138302">It is true I had spoken to a few of them: Yeddyurappa admits he asked opposition MLAs to cross-vote</a>

In an emotional speech before stepping down as Chief Minister, B S Yeddyurappa today accused the Congress-JDS combine of forming an "opportunistic" alliance and said the popular mandate had been subverted due to their "conspiracy".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-jds-win-in-karnataka-encouraging-formation-of-federal-front-against-bjp-138306">Congress-JD(S) win in Karnataka encouraging formation of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-jds-win-in-karnataka-encouraging-formation-of-federal-front-against-bjp-138306">federal</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-jds-win-in-karnataka-encouraging-formation-of-federal-front-against-bjp-138306"> front against BJP</a>

The JD(S)-Congress win&nbspin Karnataka has encouraged the formation of a "federal front" against the BJP, news reports said Sunday.

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United States First Lady Melania Trump on Saturday returned to the White House after a successful kidney procedure, the office announced in a statement.

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Antonio Conte has warned Chelsea he will never change his demanding ways as the FA Cup winning boss waits to discover if he will be sacked.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/features/priyanka-chopras-heartfelt-note-for-friend-meghan-markle-138303">When time stands still: Priyanka Chopra writes </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/features/priyanka-chopras-heartfelt-note-for-friend-meghan-markle-138303">heartfelt</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/features/priyanka-chopras-heartfelt-note-for-friend-meghan-markle-138303"> note to friend Meghan Markle</a>

Priyanka Chopra, who was one of the guests invited for the&nbsp<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/royal-wedding-live-updates-prince-harry-and-meghan-markle-to-wed-at-windsor-castle-today-138144">royal wedding</a>&nbspyesterday said that she teared up after seeing the ceremony and has left a heartfelt note to the close friend and bride Meghan Markle.

It is true I had spoken to a few of them: Yeddyurappa admits he asked opposition MLAs to cross-vote In an emotional speech before stepping down as Chief Minister, B S Yeddyurappa today accused the Congress-JDS combine of forming an "opportunistic" alliance and said the popular mandate had been subverted due to their "conspiracy". Congress-JD(S) win in Karnataka encouraging formation of federal front against BJP The JD(S)-Congress win&nbspin Karnataka has encouraged the formation of a "federal front" against the BJP, news reports said Sunday. Trump welcomes Melania home after kidney procedure, misspells her name United States First Lady Melania Trump on Saturday returned to the White House after a successful kidney procedure, the office announced in a statement. 'I'll never change,' Chelsea's Conte says after winning FA cup Antonio Conte has warned Chelsea he will never change his demanding ways as the FA Cup winning boss waits to discover if he will be sacked. When time stands still: Priyanka Chopra writes heartfelt note to friend Meghan Markle Priyanka Chopra, who was one of the guests invited for the royal wedding&nbspyesterday said that she teared up after seeing the ceremony and has left a heartfelt note to the close friend and bride Meghan Markle.

Ahead of his swearing-in as the Karnataka chief minister, JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy will meet Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in Delhi on Monday to discuss the modalities of government formation.

Clarifying that no discussion has taken place so far on the allocation of ministerial berths, Kumaraswamy termed reports on the power-sharing formula of 30 months each between the parties as "bogus".

"I'm visiting New Delhi tomorrow ... I will meet Congress President Rahul Gandhi and the party's senior leader Sonia Gandhi," he told reporters here.

Based on the outcome of discussions with them, a decision will be taken on the number of Congress and JD(S) MLAs who will become ministers, Kumaraswamy added.

BS Yeddyurappa had yesterday stepped down as the chief minister without facing the floor test in the state assembly as the BJP fell short of numbers, following which Kumaraswamy met governor Vajubhai Vala, and said he had been invited to form the government.

The May 12 Karnataka assembly polls threw up a hung assembly, with the BJP emerging as the single largest party with 104 seats.

While making it clear that there have been no discussions yet on the portfolio allocation, Kumaraswamy requested the media not to create confusion among the public and MLAs with such "speculative" reports.

He also asserted that within 24 hours of taking oath, he would prove the majority on the floor of the House.

"Mostly on Wednesday there will be oath-taking ceremony after that on Thursday we will complete the process of speaker's election and trust vote," he added.

After meeting the governor, Kumaraswamy had yesterday said the swearing-in ceremony would take place tentatively between 12 noon and 1.50 pm at Kanteerava stadium on May 21.

But, later he announced that the event would be held on May 23 as May 21 happens to be the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

The venue of the swearing-in is also likely to be changed, with party sources now saying it is likely to take place at Vidhana Soudha (the seat of the state legislature).

However, Kumaraswamy said he had spoken to the chief secretary and other senior officials about it and they would take a call on the venue.

Kumaraswamy today met his father and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda at his residence and later visited the hotel where JD(S) MLAs are camping and held a meeting with them.&nbsp

Asked about reports on power-sharing formula of 30 months each that is being worked out with the Congress, Kumaraswamy said, "No such talks have taken place."&nbsp

On reports about parleys with Congress leaders regarding elections in Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagar assembly constituencies, Kumarasamy described it as "bogus".&nbsp

"It is a bogus news ... No such discussions have taken place. Wining Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagara is a necessity. Till now, no such discussions have happened," he said.

While polling was deferred in Rajarajeshwari Nagar constituency over allegations of electoral malpractice, election to Jayanagar seat was countermanded following the death of the BJP candidate.&nbsp

Kumaraswamy termed reports on the power-sharing formula of 30 months each between the parties as "bogus"

Ahead of his swearing-in as the Karnataka chief minister, JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy will meet Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in Delhi on Monday to discuss the modalities of government formation. Clarifying that no discussion has taken place so far on the allocation of ministerial berths, Kumaraswamy termed reports on the power-sharing formula of 30 months each between the parties as "bogus". "I'm visiting New Delhi tomorrow ... I will meet Congress President Rahul Gandhi and the party's senior leader Sonia Gandhi," he told reporters here. Based on the outcome of discussions with them, a decision will be taken on the number of Congress and JD(S) MLAs who will become ministers, Kumaraswamy added. BS Yeddyurappa had yesterday stepped down as the chief minister without facing the floor test in the state assembly as the BJP fell short of numbers, following which Kumaraswamy met governor Vajubhai Vala, and said he had been invited to form the government. The May 12 Karnataka assembly polls threw up a hung assembly, with the BJP emerging as the single largest party with 104 seats. While making it clear that there have been no discussions yet on the portfolio allocation, Kumaraswamy requested the media not to create confusion among the public and MLAs with such "speculative" reports. He also asserted that within 24 hours of taking oath, he would prove the majority on the floor of the House. "Mostly on Wednesday there will be oath-taking ceremony after that on Thursday we will complete the process of speaker's election and trust vote," he added. After meeting the governor, Kumaraswamy had yesterday said the swearing-in ceremony would take place tentatively between 12 noon and 1.50 pm at Kanteerava stadium on May 21. But, later he announced that the event would be held on May 23 as May 21 happens to be the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The venue of the swearing-in is also likely to be changed, with party sources now saying it is likely to take place at Vidhana Soudha (the seat of the state legislature). However, Kumaraswamy said he had spoken to the chief secretary and other senior officials about it and they would take a call on the venue. Kumaraswamy today met his father and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda at his residence and later visited the hotel where JD(S) MLAs are camping and held a meeting with them. Asked about reports on power-sharing formula of 30 months each that is being worked out with the Congress, Kumaraswamy said, "No such talks have taken place." On reports about parleys with Congress leaders regarding elections in Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagar assembly constituencies, Kumarasamy described it as "bogus". "It is a bogus news ... No such discussions have taken place. Wining Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagara is a necessity. Till now, no such discussions have happened," he said. While polling was deferred in Rajarajeshwari Nagar constituency over allegations of electoral malpractice, election to Jayanagar seat was countermanded following the death of the BJP candidate.

Ahead of oath ceremony, Kumaraswamy to meet Sonia, Rahul in Delhi tomorrow

The turn of events that compelled the BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa to resign as Karnataka chief minister was a flashback to 1996 when a similar fate had forced then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to resign his post.

Vajpayee had assumed office as the 10th prime minister of India in May 1996. He was invited by the president to form the government after the BJP emerged as the single largest party in the Lok Sabha elections. The BJP had won 161 seats out of 545. Along with its allies, the party had gained authority over 194 seats. The majority mark required to form the government was 272.&nbsp;

Vajpayee held the position of prime minister for 13 days. However, he failed to&nbsp;garner enough support and was eventually forced to step down. After Vajpayee's resignation on May 27, 1996, his government was replaced by an alliance between the Congress and the HD Deve Gowda-led United Front. The Congress, which was the second largest party with 140 seats, gave the United Front outside support.

On Saturday, the Karnataka legislative assembly witnessed the resignation of the two-day-old BJP government led by BS Yeddyurappa. Despite scoring the highest number of seats (104)&nbsp;in the elections, the BJP failed to form a government in the state. The Congress, which emerged the second-largest party with 78 seats, extended its support to the JD(S), which is the third-largest party with&nbsp;37 seats.

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Gowda became&nbsp;the country's 11th prime minister, replacing Vajpayee's 13-day BJP government.

Similar to 1996, the BJP government in Karnataka led by BS Yeddyurappa will be replaced by a JD(S)-Congress alliance lead by HD Deve Gowda's son HD Kumaraswamy.

The only difference is that the Congress this time is part of the government.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy's swearing-in ceremeony will be held on May 23 in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

Vajpayee's 13-day government was replaced in 1996 by the HD Deve Gowda-led United Front. The Congress gave Gowda outside support

The turn of events that compelled the BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa to resign as Karnataka chief minister was a flashback to 1996 when a similar fate had forced then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to resign his post. Vajpayee had assumed office as the 10th prime minister of India in May 1996. He was invited by the president to form the government after the BJP emerged as the single largest party in the Lok Sabha elections. The BJP had won 161 seats out of 545. Along with its allies, the party had gained authority over 194 seats. The majority mark required to form the government was 272. Vajpayee held the position of prime minister for 13 days. However, he failed to garner enough support and was eventually forced to step down. After Vajpayee's resignation on May 27, 1996, his government was replaced by an alliance between the Congress and the HD Deve Gowda-led United Front. The Congress, which was the second largest party with 140 seats, gave the United Front outside support. On Saturday, the Karnataka legislative assembly witnessed the resignation of the two-day-old BJP government led by BS Yeddyurappa. Despite scoring the highest number of seats (104) in the elections, the BJP failed to form a government in the state. The Congress, which emerged the second-largest party with 78 seats, extended its support to the JD(S), which is the third-largest party with 37 seats. × Gowda became the country's 11th prime minister, replacing Vajpayee's 13-day BJP government. Similar to 1996, the BJP government in Karnataka led by BS Yeddyurappa will be replaced by a JD(S)-Congress alliance lead by HD Deve Gowda's son HD Kumaraswamy. The only difference is that the Congress this time is part of the government. Kumaraswamy's swearing-in ceremeony will be held on May 23 in Bengaluru.

Yeddyurappa's resignation is a replay of Atal Bihari Vajpayee's in 1996

Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Saturday said the Congress-JDS combine was not in a hurry and was awaiting an invitation from the Karnataka governor for government formation in the state.

“We are not in a hurry. We are waiting for an invitation from the governor,” he told reporters, soon after the BJP’s B S Yeddyurappa announced his decision to quit as Karnataka chief minister without facing the vote of confidence in the Assembly.

Asked about the future course of action, Kumaraswamy said the leaders of the Congress and the JD(S) would sit together and take a decision on it.

The Congress has already categorically stated that it will be a Kumaraswamy-headed government in the southern state.

The May 12 Karnataka Assembly polls threw up a hung Assembly, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with a tally of 104 seats, but falling short of a majority.

The Congress-JD(S) combine has staked the claim with the governor to form the government, saying they have 117 MLAs in the 224-member House, with an effective strength of 221.

Polling for two seats was not held due to various reasons, while Kumaraswamy won from two places.

The Supreme Court had yesterday ordered a floor test in the Karnataka Assembly at 4 PM today, drastically slashing the 15-day window given by Governor Vajubhai Vala to Yeddyurappa to prove his majority.

Following 72 hours of high drama, which involved a midnight session at the Supreme Court, leaked audio tapes, and hidden lawmakers, the BJP failed to secure seven MLAs that it needed to pass the floor test in the House.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Left parties and the Trinamool Congreess&nbsp;termed the resignation of Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa without facing a trust vote a "victory of secular democratic forces".

(With inputs from PTI)

Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Saturday said the Congress-JDS combine was not in a hurry and was awaiting an invitation from the Karnataka governor for government

Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Saturday said the Congress-JDS combine was not in a hurry and was awaiting an invitation from the Karnataka governor for government formation in the state. “We are not in a hurry. We are waiting for an invitation from the governor,” he told reporters, soon after the BJP’s B S Yeddyurappa announced his decision to quit as Karnataka chief minister without facing the vote of confidence in the Assembly. Asked about the future course of action, Kumaraswamy said the leaders of the Congress and the JD(S) would sit together and take a decision on it. The Congress has already categorically stated that it will be a Kumaraswamy-headed government in the southern state. The May 12 Karnataka Assembly polls threw up a hung Assembly, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with a tally of 104 seats, but falling short of a majority. The Congress-JD(S) combine has staked the claim with the governor to form the government, saying they have 117 MLAs in the 224-member House, with an effective strength of 221. Polling for two seats was not held due to various reasons, while Kumaraswamy won from two places. The Supreme Court had yesterday ordered a floor test in the Karnataka Assembly at 4 PM today, drastically slashing the 15-day window given by Governor Vajubhai Vala to Yeddyurappa to prove his majority. Following 72 hours of high drama, which involved a midnight session at the Supreme Court, leaked audio tapes, and hidden lawmakers, the BJP failed to secure seven MLAs that it needed to pass the floor test in the House. Meanwhile, Left parties and the Trinamool Congreess termed the resignation of Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa without facing a trust vote a "victory of secular democratic forces". (With inputs from PTI)

We are awaiting governor’s invite, says JD(S) leader Kumaraswamy

To avoid any attempt of horse trading by the Bhartiya Janata Party the Congress and JD(S) shifted their MLAs from Bengaluru to Hyderabad, JD(S) leader Kumaraswamy said.&nbsp;

He said, "We have to take some caution. To stop horse-trading, they(MLAs) are moving together. All MLAs (JD(S) and Congress) are travelling on the bus, they are going to stay in the same place".

The Congress MLAs&nbsp;have been shifted to Hyderabad's Taj Krishna Hotel.

According to a media report, the MLAs of the two parties were shifted to Hyderabad by bus as the HAL airport in Bengaluru denied them permission to fly to Hyderabad, the media stated.

Earlier JD(S) MLA Shivarame Gowda had said that some of the Congress and JD(S) MLAs were going to Kochi while others to Hyderabad.

The two parties decided to shift their MLAs from Bengaluru after the removal of the police force from outside their resort.

The Congress MLAs stayed at Eagleton Resort while the JD(S) MLAs at&nbsp;Shangri-La Hotel in Bengaluru.

The security deployed outside the Eagleton Resort was withdrawn on Thursday. Following this, the Congress leader accused the BJP members of entering the resort and offering money to their MLAs.

Congress leader claimed that after the police were withdrawn from outside the resort, the BJP entered the hotel and offered money to their MLAs.

Apparently, the Congress and JD(S) have put their MLAs in the resort&nbsp;to keep them out of the reach of BJP.

The BJP, which has formed the government in Karnataka, needs to prove its majority within 15 days. The party needs the support of 7 more MLAs in order to reach the majority mark and&nbsp;continue with its governance in Karnataka.&nbsp;

In the elections held on May 12, the BJP emerged as the single largest party with 104 members. The Congress secured 78 seats, the JD(S) 37 and others three.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CORRECTION?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CORRECTION</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VISUALS?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VISUALS</a>: Bus carrying Congress MLAs seen leaving Eagleton Resort in Bengaluru where the MLAs were staying. Congress' Ramalinga Reddy claimed that after the police was withdrawn from outside the resort,BJP came inside & offered money to the MLAs <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/QsknkWvTMM">pic.twitter.com/QsknkWvTMM</a>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Congress MLAs changing buses on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hyderabad?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hyderabad</a> Highway. The MLAs along with JD(S) MLAs will be staying in Hyderabad <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/eUk3dFd4yq">pic.twitter.com/eUk3dFd4yq</a>
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&nbsp;

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Karnataka Congress MLAs arrive at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hyderabad?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hyderabad</a>'s Taj Krishna Hotel, Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) head Uttam Kumar Reddy also present. <a href="https://t.co/BTSwh4qtmU">pic.twitter.com/BTSwh4qtmU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/997341536542015489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

JD(S) leader Kumaraswamy said, 'We have to take some caution. To stop horse-trading, they(MLAs) are moving together. All MLAs (JD(S) and Congress) are travelling on the bus, they are going to stay in the same place'

To avoid any attempt of horse trading by the Bhartiya Janata Party the Congress and JD(S) shifted their MLAs from Bengaluru to Hyderabad, JD(S) leader Kumaraswamy said. He said, "We have to take some caution. To stop horse-trading, they(MLAs) are moving together. All MLAs (JD(S) and Congress) are travelling on the bus, they are going to stay in the same place". The Congress MLAs have been shifted to Hyderabad's Taj Krishna Hotel. According to a media report, the MLAs of the two parties were shifted to Hyderabad by bus as the HAL airport in Bengaluru denied them permission to fly to Hyderabad, the media stated. Earlier JD(S) MLA Shivarame Gowda had said that some of the Congress and JD(S) MLAs were going to Kochi while others to Hyderabad. The two parties decided to shift their MLAs from Bengaluru after the removal of the police force from outside their resort. The Congress MLAs stayed at Eagleton Resort while the JD(S) MLAs at Shangri-La Hotel in Bengaluru. The security deployed outside the Eagleton Resort was withdrawn on Thursday. Following this, the Congress leader accused the BJP members of entering the resort and offering money to their MLAs. Congress leader claimed that after the police were withdrawn from outside the resort, the BJP entered the hotel and offered money to their MLAs. Apparently, the Congress and JD(S) have put their MLAs in the resort to keep them out of the reach of BJP. The BJP, which has formed the government in Karnataka, needs to prove its majority within 15 days. The party needs the support of 7 more MLAs in order to reach the majority mark and continue with its governance in Karnataka. In the elections held on May 12, the BJP emerged as the single largest party with 104 members. The Congress secured 78 seats, the JD(S) 37 and others three. #CORRECTION in #VISUALS: Bus carrying Congress MLAs seen leaving Eagleton Resort in Bengaluru where the MLAs were staying. Congress' Ramalinga Reddy claimed that after the police was withdrawn from outside the resort,BJP came inside & offered money to the MLAs #KarnatakaElections pic.twitter.com/QsknkWvTMM — ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018 × #WATCH Congress MLAs changing buses on #Hyderabad Highway. The MLAs along with JD(S) MLAs will be staying in Hyderabad #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/eUk3dFd4yq — ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018 × Karnataka Congress MLAs arrive at #Hyderabad's Taj Krishna Hotel, Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) head Uttam Kumar Reddy also present. pic.twitter.com/BTSwh4qtmU — ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2018 ×

Karnataka: Congress, JD(S) shift MLAs from Bengaluru 'to avoid horse trading'

Expressing his concern over the results of the Karnataka election, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi said that the results have brought down the Muslim representation in the assembly.

He said,&nbsp;"&nbsp;Karnataka assembly results have brought down Muslim representation in the Assembly and this should be the cause of concern for every political party which believes&nbsp;in diversity and pluralism".&nbsp;

He also extended wishes to JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy for his party's victory. He said, "&nbsp;Kumaraswamy will discharge his constitutional responsibility in a better way as compared to his predecessors".

The JD(S) has won fewer seats than both the Congress and BJP but the Congress offered it its support to the party. The Congress also offered&nbsp;the JD(S) the option to pick a chief minister of its choice.&nbsp;

The two parties can form a coalition government in the state after the Governor's approval.&nbsp;

The results of the Karnataka assembly election were announced on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Official EC trends at the moment say the BJP has won or is leading in 104 seats, the Congress in 78, the JD(S)&nbsp;in 37, and Others 3.&nbsp;

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I spoke Mr <a href="https://twitter.com/hd_kumaraswamy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hd_kumaraswamy</a> & congratulated him for his party’s victory & Alliance I am sure as CM Kumaraswamy will discharge his constitutional responsibility in a better way as compared to other predecessors & inshallah Karnataka will progress under his leadership
— Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) <a href="https://twitter.com/asadowaisi/status/996412816973217793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He also extended wishes to JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy for his party's victory. He said, 'Kumaraswamy will discharge his constitutional responsibility in a better way as compared to his predecessors'

Expressing his concern over the results of the Karnataka election, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi said that the results have brought down the Muslim representation in the assembly. He said, " Karnataka assembly results have brought down Muslim representation in the Assembly and this should be the cause of concern for every political party which believes in diversity and pluralism". He also extended wishes to JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy for his party's victory. He said, " Kumaraswamy will discharge his constitutional responsibility in a better way as compared to his predecessors". The JD(S) has won fewer seats than both the Congress and BJP but the Congress offered it its support to the party. The Congress also offered the JD(S) the option to pick a chief minister of its choice. The two parties can form a coalition government in the state after the Governor's approval. The results of the Karnataka assembly election were announced on Tuesday. Official EC trends at the moment say the BJP has won or is leading in 104 seats, the Congress in 78, the JD(S) in 37, and Others 3. I spoke Mr @hd_kumaraswamy & congratulated him for his party’s victory & Alliance I am sure as CM Kumaraswamy will discharge his constitutional responsibility in a better way as compared to other predecessors & inshallah Karnataka will progress under his leadership — Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) May 15, 2018 ×

'Karnataka results have brought Muslim representation down in the state': AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi

After a fractured mandate, political parties must strive to build coalitions and form a government. Elections are a costly affair and should not be held in close succession. But we must all be careful what we wish for. An undecided Karnataka threw up no single party that has a majority. Perhaps the people of the state were not too enamoured by the choices that they had, or it could be a simple case of poll arithmetic. But all said and done, to have chief minister from a party that finished third at the hustings both in terms of seats and vote percentages seems ‘undemocratic’.

When HD Kumaraswamy speaks about staking a claim or Siddaramaiah says his Congress party will extend unconditional support to Kumaraswamy’s JD(S), it isn’t about the numbers that they help on, it is as much about the spirit of democracy and upholding the mandate that has been given.

The precedent that’s been set by the Supreme Court is that the Governor invites the largest pre-poll alliance, then the single-largest parties. In 2015, hearing a public interest litigation, the then Chief Justice HL Dattu and Justice Amitava Roy had expressed their inability to step-in an act against two political parties that chose to form a post-poll alliance. Justice Roy observed that a promise made by a political party was not a promise enforceable by law.

Apart from the options stated above, there are two other options that were enumerated in the Sarkaria Commission recommendations, which were affirmed by a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court in Rameshwar Prasad v Union of India in 2005. These are that the governor can invite a post-electoral coalition of parties, with all the partners in the coalition joining the government or that can invite a post-electoral alliance of parties, with some of the parties in the alliance forming a government and the remaining parties, including independents, supporting the government from outside.

The Congress has been harping on what happened in Goa last year where the Governor didn’t consult them even though they were the single largest party and went ahead after the BJP with the support of two other local parties staked claim. Post poll alliances aren’t new to the Indian context — but rarely has the experiment been in interests of the populace if the party that won the most seats or the party that finished second doesn’t manage to lead the government. Remember Madhu Koda anyone — the independent who became Jharkhand chief minister for almost 2 years in 2006. That experiment didn’t augur too well for the people of Jharkhand, did it? He allegedly made 4000-crore rupees in a mining scam, for which he was convicted in 2017 to three years in jail.

We clearly live in interesting times where phone connections are pre-paid and political alliances are post-poll, where consumers have number portability and the parties port ideologies. Politics makes strange bedfellows, no permanent foes or friends and certainly no untouchables. In the land of Mahatma Gandhi where the journey is more important than the destination, we seem to be surrounded by Machiavellian princes for whom the end justifies the means. The only question that then remains is what justifies the end?

The precedent that’s been set by the Supreme Court is that the Governor invites the largest pre-poll alliance

After a fractured mandate, political parties must strive to build coalitions and form a government. Elections are a costly affair and should not be held in close succession. But we must all be careful what we wish for. An undecided Karnataka threw up no single party that has a majority. Perhaps the people of the state were not too enamoured by the choices that they had, or it could be a simple case of poll arithmetic. But all said and done, to have chief minister from a party that finished third at the hustings both in terms of seats and vote percentages seems ‘undemocratic’. When HD Kumaraswamy speaks about staking a claim or Siddaramaiah says his Congress party will extend unconditional support to Kumaraswamy’s JD(S), it isn’t about the numbers that they help on, it is as much about the spirit of democracy and upholding the mandate that has been given. The precedent that’s been set by the Supreme Court is that the Governor invites the largest pre-poll alliance, then the single-largest parties. In 2015, hearing a public interest litigation, the then Chief Justice HL Dattu and Justice Amitava Roy had expressed their inability to step-in an act against two political parties that chose to form a post-poll alliance. Justice Roy observed that a promise made by a political party was not a promise enforceable by law. Apart from the options stated above, there are two other options that were enumerated in the Sarkaria Commission recommendations, which were affirmed by a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court in Rameshwar Prasad v Union of India in 2005. These are that the governor can invite a post-electoral coalition of parties, with all the partners in the coalition joining the government or that can invite a post-electoral alliance of parties, with some of the parties in the alliance forming a government and the remaining parties, including independents, supporting the government from outside. The Congress has been harping on what happened in Goa last year where the Governor didn’t consult them even though they were the single largest party and went ahead after the BJP with the support of two other local parties staked claim. Post poll alliances aren’t new to the Indian context — but rarely has the experiment been in interests of the populace if the party that won the most seats or the party that finished second doesn’t manage to lead the government. Remember Madhu Koda anyone — the independent who became Jharkhand chief minister for almost 2 years in 2006. That experiment didn’t augur too well for the people of Jharkhand, did it? He allegedly made 4000-crore rupees in a mining scam, for which he was convicted in 2017 to three years in jail. We clearly live in interesting times where phone connections are pre-paid and political alliances are post-poll, where consumers have number portability and the parties port ideologies. Politics makes strange bedfellows, no permanent foes or friends and certainly no untouchables. In the land of Mahatma Gandhi where the journey is more important than the destination, we seem to be surrounded by Machiavellian princes for whom the end justifies the means. The only question that then remains is what justifies the end?

Opinion: Congress-JD(S) deal done, are post-poll alliances undemocratic?

He was thrown out of the JD(S) in 2005 for anti-party activities following his sharp differences with its leadership over HD Kumaraswamy's growing clout in the party.

Twelve years down the line, Siddaramaiah, the 69-year-old leader from the backward Kuruba community, today offered Karnataka's chief ministership to his political foe Kumaraswamy whose party finished a poor third with barely 37 seats in its kitty.

Siddaramaiah suffered a humiliating defeat in Chamundeshwari where he lost to GT Deve Gowda of the JD(S) by over 36,000 votes, but managed to win Badami by a slender margin of 1,696 votes against BJP's B Sreeramulu, a sitting saffron party MP and close aide of the controversial Reddy brothers.

Despite being considered an "outsider" by a section of the Karnataka Congress for his socialist roots, Siddaramaiah became the first chief minister since Devraj Urs (1972-77) to complete a full five-year term in office.

Born into a poor farming family in Siddaramanahundi village in 1948, Siddaramaiah, the second of five siblings, did not have formal education initially, and joined school in the 5th grade.

Overcoming adversity, he did his BSc and obtained a degree in law. He practised law and even taught it for a while in Mysuru.

Siddaramaiah, who goes by the single name, joined politics under the influence of Nanjunda Swamy, a farmer leader who campaigned against agricultural patenting by multinational corporations.

He made his debut in the Assembly in 1983 from Chamundeshwari constituency on a Lok Dal ticket. He later joined the Janata Dal.

Admired for his canny political sense and his rustic, down to earth characteristics, Siddaramaiah climbed up the ladder in the Janata Dal, and served as minister in the party's governments. He also served as deputy chief minister twice.

A 7-term legislator, Siddaramaiah followed his mentor H D Deve Gowda after the Janata Dal split and the former prime minister formed the JD(S).

Siddaramaiah later floated his own party-- All India Progressive Janata Dal--following his expulsion from the JD (S). He had irreconcilable differences with Deve Gowda over the growing influence of his son H D Kumaraswamy in the party.

The expulsion came when Siddaramaiah started actively particiating in the AHINDA (Kannada acronym for minorities, backward classes and Dalits) movement. Castes and communities constituting the AHINDA were considered the bedrock of the Congress's support base in Karnataka.

Siddaramaiah later merged his party with the Congress.

In the 2006 Assembly elections, Siddaramaiah contested from Chamundeshwari on Congress ticket and won by a wafer thin margin of 257 votes against the JD(S) candidate. However, he had exacted a sweet revenge.

He was appointed chairman of the publicity committee of the Congress in the 2008 Assembly polls, which the BJP won. He was then appointed the Leader of the Opposition, a reflection of his growing clout in the Congress.

The BJP's stint in power was marred by intra-party feuds and allegations of corruption.

When the BJP lost the 2013 polls, Siddaramaiah was appointed the chief minister.

Known for taking bold decisions, Siddaramaiah decided to celebrate 'Tipu Jayanti', a move denounced by the BJP as "appeasement politics". His government also took the controversial decision of recommending religious minority status for the influential Lingayat community in the run up to the polls. 
He launched a plethora of populist schemes like the Annabhagya for free distribution of rice, Ksheeradhare under which subsidy was given for milk, Vidyasiri that made available hostel facilities for students, and many others.

The Siddaramaiah government also substantially raised the budgetary allocations for Dalits.

These populist measures were expected to effectively insulate Siddaramaiah against allegations of corruption as Modi mounted an aggressive assault, calling him a "Seedha rupaiah government" and "10 per cent commission government".

Apparently, the charges did stick.

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He was thrown out of the JD(S) in 2005 for anti-party activities following his sharp differences with its leadership over HD Kumaraswamy's growing clout in the party

He was thrown out of the JD(S) in 2005 for anti-party activities following his sharp differences with its leadership over HD Kumaraswamy's growing clout in the party. Twelve years down the line, Siddaramaiah, the 69-year-old leader from the backward Kuruba community, today offered Karnataka's chief ministership to his political foe Kumaraswamy whose party finished a poor third with barely 37 seats in its kitty. Siddaramaiah suffered a humiliating defeat in Chamundeshwari where he lost to GT Deve Gowda of the JD(S) by over 36,000 votes, but managed to win Badami by a slender margin of 1,696 votes against BJP's B Sreeramulu, a sitting saffron party MP and close aide of the controversial Reddy brothers. Despite being considered an "outsider" by a section of the Karnataka Congress for his socialist roots, Siddaramaiah became the first chief minister since Devraj Urs (1972-77) to complete a full five-year term in office. Born into a poor farming family in Siddaramanahundi village in 1948, Siddaramaiah, the second of five siblings, did not have formal education initially, and joined school in the 5th grade. Overcoming adversity, he did his BSc and obtained a degree in law. He practised law and even taught it for a while in Mysuru. Siddaramaiah, who goes by the single name, joined politics under the influence of Nanjunda Swamy, a farmer leader who campaigned against agricultural patenting by multinational corporations. He made his debut in the Assembly in 1983 from Chamundeshwari constituency on a Lok Dal ticket. He later joined the Janata Dal. Admired for his canny political sense and his rustic, down to earth characteristics, Siddaramaiah climbed up the ladder in the Janata Dal, and served as minister in the party's governments. He also served as deputy chief minister twice. A 7-term legislator, Siddaramaiah followed his mentor H D Deve Gowda after the Janata Dal split and the former prime minister formed the JD(S). Siddaramaiah later floated his own party-- All India Progressive Janata Dal--following his expulsion from the JD (S). He had irreconcilable differences with Deve Gowda over the growing influence of his son H D Kumaraswamy in the party. The expulsion came when Siddaramaiah started actively particiating in the AHINDA (Kannada acronym for minorities, backward classes and Dalits) movement. Castes and communities constituting the AHINDA were considered the bedrock of the Congress's support base in Karnataka. Siddaramaiah later merged his party with the Congress. In the 2006 Assembly elections, Siddaramaiah contested from Chamundeshwari on Congress ticket and won by a wafer thin margin of 257 votes against the JD(S) candidate. However, he had exacted a sweet revenge. He was appointed chairman of the publicity committee of the Congress in the 2008 Assembly polls, which the BJP won. He was then appointed the Leader of the Opposition, a reflection of his growing clout in the Congress. The BJP's stint in power was marred by intra-party feuds and allegations of corruption. When the BJP lost the 2013 polls, Siddaramaiah was appointed the chief minister. Known for taking bold decisions, Siddaramaiah decided to celebrate 'Tipu Jayanti', a move denounced by the BJP as "appeasement politics". His government also took the controversial decision of recommending religious minority status for the influential Lingayat community in the run up to the polls. He launched a plethora of populist schemes like the Annabhagya for free distribution of rice, Ksheeradhare under which subsidy was given for milk, Vidyasiri that made available hostel facilities for students, and many others. The Siddaramaiah government also substantially raised the budgetary allocations for Dalits. These populist measures were expected to effectively insulate Siddaramaiah against allegations of corruption as Modi mounted an aggressive assault, calling him a "Seedha rupaiah government" and "10 per cent commission government". Apparently, the charges did stick.

Once expelled from JD(S), Siddaramaiah now offers crown to foe Kumaraswamy

Despite their electoral loss, the Congress has been able to upset the BJP’s applecart by ensuring that Kumaraswamy becomes the Chief Minister of the state. BJP has cried foul saying that it is unethical but the fact that BJP made governments in Manipur, Meghalaya and Goa does not cut much ice in the public domain. Despite the loss, the Congress by allowing JD(S) to step in will allow regional parties to further collaborate with each other closely. The case in example is the way the SP and the BSP cooperated with each other during the Phulpur and the Gorakhpur by-elections. It will also boost the morale of the Congress which has been outmanoeuvred and outwitted by BJP continuously in the last four years. It will help them retain the state in partnership and ensure that the party prepares well for the upcoming assembly election in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The success will add shine to Rahul Gandhi’s leadership for being proactive and ready with a plan B which was not done in the case of Goa and Manipur. 
&nbsp; 
That is where the bright side to this story ends as one doesn’t know till when the honeymoon between the JD(S) and the Congress will last. The present result shows that the JD(S) did well at the expense of the Congress Party in Mysore Karnataka. 
&nbsp; 
The Congress despite increasing its voter base in the state received less seats than the BJP. It also lost large number of rural seats and the party did not do well in coastal, central and Hyderabad Karnataka. 
&nbsp; 
The downside to the development is that the BJP can take the high moral ground and cry injustice. Karnataka being the bigger state will draw more attention than Manipur and Goa. BJP did very well in the rural areas and the 100+ seats that they got show that Prime Minister Narendra Modi still has the capacity to turn elections around. Atal Bihari Vajpayee could not politically function as prime minister despite being the single largest party as other regional parties ganged up against him. It was 1999, he was able to set the stage after being PM for 13 days and 13 months as the Opposition realised that the more they ganged up against him, the more sympathy he generated. On top of it, he was able to build an umbrella coalition which the Congress did not possess. 
&nbsp; 
The Karnataka elections have shown that the BJP is organisationally powerful and understands that it needs to expand in areas to compensate for a saturated performance in Western and Northern India in the 2014 elections. There are places where they have succeeded but in the East and deep South, they have not been able to cut much ice. 
&nbsp; 
Despite the Congress being weak, it will embolden regional parties to come together and tie up against the BJP. This could pose to be the real challenge for the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. It can put the Congress in a secondary role but urgency to put the BJP in a corner to survive can lead to the party's political isolation. In politics, position of strength can also create isolation as other political units can band to prevent overt hegemony. This should remain the BJP’s big fear.

Rajiv Gandhi faced a similar situation. The only difference is that the man opposing him was VP Singh who was the toast of the year and the man defending the fort was Rajiv Gandhi who was reeling under the charge of corruption. In 2019, there is no such face or leadership in the Opposition. Neither is there any consensus but political climate does exist for everyone to come together to fight an ever-expanding BJP. 
&nbsp;

Despite their electoral loss, the Congress has been able to upset the BJP’s applecart by ensuring that Kumaraswamy becomes the Chief Minister of the state

Despite their electoral loss, the Congress has been able to upset the BJP’s applecart by ensuring that Kumaraswamy becomes the Chief Minister of the state. BJP has cried foul saying that it is unethical but the fact that BJP made governments in Manipur, Meghalaya and Goa does not cut much ice in the public domain. Despite the loss, the Congress by allowing JD(S) to step in will allow regional parties to further collaborate with each other closely. The case in example is the way the SP and the BSP cooperated with each other during the Phulpur and the Gorakhpur by-elections. It will also boost the morale of the Congress which has been outmanoeuvred and outwitted by BJP continuously in the last four years. It will help them retain the state in partnership and ensure that the party prepares well for the upcoming assembly election in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The success will add shine to Rahul Gandhi’s leadership for being proactive and ready with a plan B which was not done in the case of Goa and Manipur. That is where the bright side to this story ends as one doesn’t know till when the honeymoon between the JD(S) and the Congress will last. The present result shows that the JD(S) did well at the expense of the Congress Party in Mysore Karnataka. The Congress despite increasing its voter base in the state received less seats than the BJP. It also lost large number of rural seats and the party did not do well in coastal, central and Hyderabad Karnataka. The downside to the development is that the BJP can take the high moral ground and cry injustice. Karnataka being the bigger state will draw more attention than Manipur and Goa. BJP did very well in the rural areas and the 100+ seats that they got show that Prime Minister Narendra Modi still has the capacity to turn elections around. Atal Bihari Vajpayee could not politically function as prime minister despite being the single largest party as other regional parties ganged up against him. It was 1999, he was able to set the stage after being PM for 13 days and 13 months as the Opposition realised that the more they ganged up against him, the more sympathy he generated. On top of it, he was able to build an umbrella coalition which the Congress did not possess. The Karnataka elections have shown that the BJP is organisationally powerful and understands that it needs to expand in areas to compensate for a saturated performance in Western and Northern India in the 2014 elections. There are places where they have succeeded but in the East and deep South, they have not been able to cut much ice. Despite the Congress being weak, it will embolden regional parties to come together and tie up against the BJP. This could pose to be the real challenge for the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. It can put the Congress in a secondary role but urgency to put the BJP in a corner to survive can lead to the party's political isolation. In politics, position of strength can also create isolation as other political units can band to prevent overt hegemony. This should remain the BJP’s big fear. Rajiv Gandhi faced a similar situation. The only difference is that the man opposing him was VP Singh who was the toast of the year and the man defending the fort was Rajiv Gandhi who was reeling under the charge of corruption. In 2019, there is no such face or leadership in the Opposition. Neither is there any consensus but political climate does exist for everyone to come together to fight an ever-expanding BJP.

Congress does to BJP in Karnataka what latter did to it in Goa

The JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy met Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala Tuesday evening, and staked his claim to forming a government in the state.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy was accompanied by the Congress' Ghulam Nabi Azad, Mallikarjun Kharge, and former chief minister Siddaramaiah.&nbsp;

The Congress told Vala that it was offering the JD(S) unconditional support.&nbsp;

The JD(S) has won fewer seats than both the BJP and the Congress but the Congress offered it outside support earlier in the day, telling the JD(S) that it could pick a chief minister of its choice.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy decided to opt for the post himself.&nbsp;

Baiju Narajan of the JD(S) meanwhile said G Parameshwara of Congress would be the deputy chief minister.

Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.)

The halfway mark then is 111 seats, with a party needing 112 seats for a simple majority.&nbsp;

Official EC trends at the moment say the BJP has won or is leading in 104 seats, the Congress in 78, the JD(S)+ in 37, and Others 3.&nbsp;

That would give the JD(S)-Congress combine a total of 115 seats.&nbsp;

Intriguingly, the BJP's chief ministerial candidate Yeddyurappa got to the Raj Bhavan just before Kumaraswamy.&nbsp;

"Just now we met governor because we are single largest party, and that he allows us to prove majority in the Assembly," Yeddyurappa said after meeting Vala.&nbsp;

On his way to the governor,&nbsp; Yeddyurappa said "100 per cent we will form the government."&nbsp;&nbsp;

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HD Kumaraswamy, Siddaramaiah, Ghulam Nabi Azad, and Mallikarjun Kharge at Raj Bhawan in Bengaluru. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/swRZKUbpsT">pic.twitter.com/swRZKUbpsT</a>
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Just now we met Governor because we are single largest party, and that he allows us to prove majority in the Assembly: BS Yeddyurappa <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/D9RLMU9zVY">pic.twitter.com/D9RLMU9zVY</a>
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100 percent we will form the government: BS Yeddyurappa <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/06633TqFBv">pic.twitter.com/06633TqFBv</a>
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What happens next depends on Governor Vala. He can invite whichever combine or single party he thinks commands majority support in the house.&nbsp;

A Zee News report quoting sources though said Tuesday evening that the governor may first invite BJP's Yeddyurappa to form a&nbsp;government in Karnataka and that the oath-taking ceremony is likely to take place on May 17.

The BJP's chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa met Governor Vajubhai Vala shortly before Kumaraswamy

The JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy met Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala Tuesday evening, and staked his claim to forming a government in the state. Kumaraswamy was accompanied by the Congress' Ghulam Nabi Azad, Mallikarjun Kharge, and former chief minister Siddaramaiah. The Congress told Vala that it was offering the JD(S) unconditional support. The JD(S) has won fewer seats than both the BJP and the Congress but the Congress offered it outside support earlier in the day, telling the JD(S) that it could pick a chief minister of its choice. Kumaraswamy decided to opt for the post himself. Baiju Narajan of the JD(S) meanwhile said G Parameshwara of Congress would be the deputy chief minister. Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.) The halfway mark then is 111 seats, with a party needing 112 seats for a simple majority. Official EC trends at the moment say the BJP has won or is leading in 104 seats, the Congress in 78, the JD(S)+ in 37, and Others 3. That would give the JD(S)-Congress combine a total of 115 seats. Intriguingly, the BJP's chief ministerial candidate Yeddyurappa got to the Raj Bhavan just before Kumaraswamy. "Just now we met governor because we are single largest party, and that he allows us to prove majority in the Assembly," Yeddyurappa said after meeting Vala. On his way to the governor, Yeddyurappa said "100 per cent we will form the government." HD Kumaraswamy, Siddaramaiah, Ghulam Nabi Azad, and Mallikarjun Kharge at Raj Bhawan in Bengaluru. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/swRZKUbpsT — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × Just now we met Governor because we are single largest party, and that he allows us to prove majority in the Assembly: BS Yeddyurappa #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/D9RLMU9zVY — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × 100 percent we will form the government: BS Yeddyurappa #KarnatakaElections pic.twitter.com/06633TqFBv — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × What happens next depends on Governor Vala. He can invite whichever combine or single party he thinks commands majority support in the house. A Zee News report quoting sources though said Tuesday evening that the governor may first invite BJP's Yeddyurappa to form a government in Karnataka and that the oath-taking ceremony is likely to take place on May 17.

JD(S)'s Kumaraswamy meets Karnataka Governor, stakes claim to form government

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah held a press conference a short while ago stating that Congress will support the JD(S) in forming the government. He also meet Governor Vajubhai Vala and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-results-siddaramaiah-to-meet-governor-to-submit-his-resignation-today-137027">served his resignation</a>.&nbsp;

"No party has a majority... Congress has decided to support the JD(S)," said Siddaramaiah.

"JD(S) will form the government with our help," he added.

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Siddaramaiah submits his resignation to the Governor of Karnataka <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaVerdict?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaVerdict</a> <a href="https://t.co/ay5biEnIM7">pic.twitter.com/ay5biEnIM7</a>
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Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad also briefed media about a telephonic conversation with Former Prime Minister and JD(S) chief Deve Gowda and his son HD Kumaraswamy. The minister noted that Congress has agreed to extend <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-offers-outside-support-to-jds-to-form-government-in-karnataka-reports-137018">outside support to JD(S)</a> and that the party can choose to nominate a Chief Ministerial candidate.&nbsp;

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We had a telephonic conversation with Deve Gowda ji & Kumaraswamy. They have accepted our offer. Hopefully, we will be together: Ghulam Nabi Azad, Congress. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/OemBerpX7r">pic.twitter.com/OemBerpX7r</a>
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&nbsp;"They have accepted our offer. Hopefully, we will be together," Azad noted.

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We accept the mandate of the people. We bow our heads to the verdict. We don’t have numbers to form govt. The Congress has offered to support JD(S) to form govt: G. Parameshwara, Congress. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/C4Hn3rtYGl">pic.twitter.com/C4Hn3rtYGl</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996319833942777856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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According to the Election Commission, at the moment BJP leads in 106 seats, the Congress in 75, the JD(S) in 38.&nbsp;

Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to polls this election. A total of 112 seats are needed to form a government. The Congress-JD(S) alliance will make up a total of 113 seats.&nbsp;

Karnataka last witnessed a hung assembly&nbsp;during the 2004 state election.

No party has a majority....Congress has decided to support the JD(S): Siddaramaiah

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah held a press conference a short while ago stating that Congress will support the JD(S) in forming the government. He also meet Governor Vajubhai Vala and served his resignation. "No party has a majority... Congress has decided to support the JD(S)," said Siddaramaiah. "JD(S) will form the government with our help," he added. Siddaramaiah submits his resignation to the Governor of Karnataka #KarnatakaVerdict pic.twitter.com/ay5biEnIM7 — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad also briefed media about a telephonic conversation with Former Prime Minister and JD(S) chief Deve Gowda and his son HD Kumaraswamy. The minister noted that Congress has agreed to extend outside support to JD(S) and that the party can choose to nominate a Chief Ministerial candidate. We had a telephonic conversation with Deve Gowda ji & Kumaraswamy. They have accepted our offer. Hopefully, we will be together: Ghulam Nabi Azad, Congress. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/OemBerpX7r — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × "They have accepted our offer. Hopefully, we will be together," Azad noted. We accept the mandate of the people. We bow our heads to the verdict. We don’t have numbers to form govt. The Congress has offered to support JD(S) to form govt: G. Parameshwara, Congress. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/C4Hn3rtYGl — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × According to the Election Commission, at the moment BJP leads in 106 seats, the Congress in 75, the JD(S) in 38. Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to polls this election. A total of 112 seats are needed to form a government. The Congress-JD(S) alliance will make up a total of 113 seats. Karnataka last witnessed a hung assembly during the 2004 state election.

Siddaramaiah submits resignation, says JD(S) will form govt with Cong help

With a day left for the Karnataka election results, speculation in the south Indian state is running wild. With a whole spectrum of exit polls predicting every possible outcome, the results this time are truly shrouded in mystery.&nbsp;

So what are the possible outcomes in these hard-fought Karnataka elections?&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The stakes are particularly high for the Congress, being the incumbent in the state. Relegated to just three states nationally, the grand old party would want to return to power with a full majority.&nbsp; 
With indications of a hung assembly being thrown up well in advance, the Congress strategy led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was focused on consolidating the AHINDA vote base comprising minorities, Dalits and SC/STs. The three communities form 60% of the state's population. If Congress fails to get a full majority or something close to it, it will be forced to look at coalition options.&nbsp;

But Siddaramaiah's bitter relationship with the JD(S) and its supremo HD Deve Gowda could prove to be a roadblock for talks between the two parties. In the event of talks happening, Siddaramaiah can bid his chief ministership goodbye.&nbsp;

HD Kumaraswamy would want to be the king, not kingmaker, least of all for Siddaramaiah. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
In another scenario, the Congress might look for a more neutral face to lead its charge in the state.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-okay-with-dalit-chief-minister-if-congress-high-command-says-so-karnataka-cm-siddaramaiah-136619">I am okay with Dalit chief minister if Congress high command says so, says Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah</a>

Some of the names doing the rounds include that that of veteran leader and MP Mallikarjuna Kharge.&nbsp;

Kharge missed out on becoming chief minister in 2013.&nbsp;

KPCC President G Parameshwar has also nursed CM ambitions, and even said that he will welcome the high command's decision to have a Dalit chief minister.&nbsp;

The other leader who has shown chief ministerial ambitions is Energy Minister DK Shivakumar.&nbsp;His chequered image had kept him out of the race last time and his demand for the deputy CM's post was not met.&nbsp;

Last but not least, Congress could consider the non-controversial figures of Industry Minister RV Deshpande and KPCC working president Dinesh Gundurao.&nbsp;

Interestingly, the Congress has not officially declared a CM candidate, but merely made Siddaramaiah in charge.&nbsp;

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This issue has been created in media to create differences between us. We are clear that high command will decide on it. It's just a matter of 12 hours: Mallikarjun Kharge on Siddaramaiah's comment, 'I can sacrifice CM's post for a Dalit' <a href="https://t.co/ewchYMHcXM">pic.twitter.com/ewchYMHcXM</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995900129235238917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;Let's move on to the BJP. Their chief ministerial candidate is BS Yeddyurappa.&nbsp;

Like for Siddaramaiah, these elections could be the last for the 75-yearr-old Yeddyurappa should he fail to bring the party back to power.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
If the BJP does get into talks with the JD(S) following a post-poll hung assembly, then Yeddyurappa's chief ministership might be in trouble.&nbsp;

Unlike the absolute mess that the BJP and JD(S) had together created in 2007, this time around Kumaraswamy might demand the position all for himself — owing to Yeddyurappa's diminished stature.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Just as important to remember is that coalition governments have been extremely unstable in Karnataka, with most coalition chief ministers not completing a full term.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Siddaramaiah's bitter relationship with JD(S) supremo HD Deve Gowda could prove to be a stumbling block to talks. In the event of a BJP-JD(S) coalition, Kumarasway might demand the job for himself owing to Yeddyurappa's diminished stature

With a day left for the Karnataka election results, speculation in the south Indian state is running wild. With a whole spectrum of exit polls predicting every possible outcome, the results this time are truly shrouded in mystery. So what are the possible outcomes in these hard-fought Karnataka elections? The stakes are particularly high for the Congress, being the incumbent in the state. Relegated to just three states nationally, the grand old party would want to return to power with a full majority. With indications of a hung assembly being thrown up well in advance, the Congress strategy led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was focused on consolidating the AHINDA vote base comprising minorities, Dalits and SC/STs. The three communities form 60% of the state's population. If Congress fails to get a full majority or something close to it, it will be forced to look at coalition options. But Siddaramaiah's bitter relationship with the JD(S) and its supremo HD Deve Gowda could prove to be a roadblock for talks between the two parties. In the event of talks happening, Siddaramaiah can bid his chief ministership goodbye. HD Kumaraswamy would want to be the king, not kingmaker, least of all for Siddaramaiah. In another scenario, the Congress might look for a more neutral face to lead its charge in the state. Also read: I am okay with Dalit chief minister if Congress high command says so, says Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Some of the names doing the rounds include that that of veteran leader and MP Mallikarjuna Kharge. Kharge missed out on becoming chief minister in 2013. KPCC President G Parameshwar has also nursed CM ambitions, and even said that he will welcome the high command's decision to have a Dalit chief minister. The other leader who has shown chief ministerial ambitions is Energy Minister DK Shivakumar. His chequered image had kept him out of the race last time and his demand for the deputy CM's post was not met. Last but not least, Congress could consider the non-controversial figures of Industry Minister RV Deshpande and KPCC working president Dinesh Gundurao. Interestingly, the Congress has not officially declared a CM candidate, but merely made Siddaramaiah in charge. This issue has been created in media to create differences between us. We are clear that high command will decide on it. It's just a matter of 12 hours: Mallikarjun Kharge on Siddaramaiah's comment, 'I can sacrifice CM's post for a Dalit' pic.twitter.com/ewchYMHcXM — ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2018 × Let's move on to the BJP. Their chief ministerial candidate is BS Yeddyurappa. Like for Siddaramaiah, these elections could be the last for the 75-yearr-old Yeddyurappa should he fail to bring the party back to power. If the BJP does get into talks with the JD(S) following a post-poll hung assembly, then Yeddyurappa's chief ministership might be in trouble. Unlike the absolute mess that the BJP and JD(S) had together created in 2007, this time around Kumaraswamy might demand the position all for himself — owing to Yeddyurappa's diminished stature. Just as important to remember is that coalition governments have been extremely unstable in Karnataka, with most coalition chief ministers not completing a full term.

If hung verdict, both Siddaramaiah & Yeddyurappa may have to give up Karnataka CM ambitions

Prime <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-elections-bjp-registers-complaint-against-jignesh-mewani-prakash-raj-for-comments-on-pm-modi-133878">Minister Modi will begin his Karnataka poll </a>offensive today addressing rallies in three areas - Mysuru, Udupi and Belagavi.

The PM will be addressing a rally in Vokkaliga-dominated&nbsp;Mysuru as BJP-led ex-chief minister Yeddyurappa attempts to run the last leg of the poll campaign from today.

The prime minister is expected to address more than a dozen rallies in five days.&nbsp;This will be PM Modi's first visit to the southern state since the Assembly election dates were announced.&nbsp;

Prime minister will kickstart his election campaign from Chamarajanagar district, where he will address a public rally in Santhemaranahalli at 11am.

His next stop will be at Udupi at 3pm where he will visit Krishna Mutt and take blessings of the Pejawar seer before addressing a public rally at AGM College Ground at 3pm.&nbsp;

Later in the day, he will address another public gathering in Chikkodi at 6pm.

The Karantaka polls which are due to be held on May 12th is witnessing a heated battle&nbsp;between the ruling Congress and the BJP with the JD(U) determined to play the role of a "kingmaker".

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has already visited all 30 districts in the state, followed by BJP president Amit Shah. Modi's rallies today will be closely watched by political pundits with the polls just 11 days away.

Chief minister Siddaramaiah has left no stone unturned in pulling his weight during the election campaign openly attacking Modi and the BJP. The Karnataka chief minister will be fighting the state polls from two seats - Chamundeshwari and Badami.

&nbsp;Amit Shah had recently held a rally in &nbsp;Karnataka's Tumkur district, he also visited the Duggamma Temple in Davanagere. Rahul Gandhi had visited the area earlier. The Congress has already released its manifesto, however, the BJP is yet to release its vision statement.

The results of the Karnataka elections will be announced on May 15th for the 225-member state assembly.

There are &nbsp;2,655 candidates in the fray for the polls.

<img alt="ModiMarketing1_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/ModiMarketing1_0.jpg" width="463" />

There are 2,655 candidates in the fray for the polls.

Prime Minister Modi will begin his Karnataka poll offensive today addressing rallies in three areas - Mysuru, Udupi and Belagavi. The PM will be addressing a rally in Vokkaliga-dominated Mysuru as BJP-led ex-chief minister Yeddyurappa attempts to run the last leg of the poll campaign from today. The prime minister is expected to address more than a dozen rallies in five days. This will be PM Modi's first visit to the southern state since the Assembly election dates were announced. Prime minister will kickstart his election campaign from Chamarajanagar district, where he will address a public rally in Santhemaranahalli at 11am. His next stop will be at Udupi at 3pm where he will visit Krishna Mutt and take blessings of the Pejawar seer before addressing a public rally at AGM College Ground at 3pm. Later in the day, he will address another public gathering in Chikkodi at 6pm. The Karantaka polls which are due to be held on May 12th is witnessing a heated battle between the ruling Congress and the BJP with the JD(U) determined to play the role of a "kingmaker". Congress president Rahul Gandhi has already visited all 30 districts in the state, followed by BJP president Amit Shah. Modi's rallies today will be closely watched by political pundits with the polls just 11 days away. Chief minister Siddaramaiah has left no stone unturned in pulling his weight during the election campaign openly attacking Modi and the BJP. The Karnataka chief minister will be fighting the state polls from two seats - Chamundeshwari and Badami. Amit Shah had recently held a rally in Karnataka's Tumkur district, he also visited the Duggamma Temple in Davanagere. Rahul Gandhi had visited the area earlier. The Congress has already released its manifesto, however, the BJP is yet to release its vision statement. The results of the Karnataka elections will be announced on May 15th for the 225-member state assembly. There are 2,655 candidates in the fray for the polls.

PM Modi to join Karnataka poll battle today, set to address rallies

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