Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and KPCC President B.K. Hariprasad met Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge in New Delhi to discuss the long-pending expansion of the Karnataka Cabinet. The high-level meeting focused on resolving the political deadlock and finalising the induction of new ministers.

Karnataka: CM Shivakumar, KPCC President meet Rahul Gandhi in Delhi

A new row has erupted at Tirupati. Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar’s proposal to do the ceremonial first ‘Aarti’ at the Tirumala temple has been shot down by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams. TTD said don’t turn Tirupati into a political arena and called the proposal "unilateral". For millions of devotees, the temple is about faith, not photo-ops or politics.


TTD slams Shivakumar's Tirupati 'aarti' plan, calls it political 

The Mekedatu dam dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka has escalated. AMMK chief T V Dhinakaran on Monday urged the Tamil Nadu government to start contempt proceedings against Karnataka for allegedly continuing construction work on the Mekedatu project despite an apex court order. He also called on CM C Joseph Vijay to meet PM Narendra Modi and push for intervention to stop the Congress-led Karnataka government’s unilateral activities. The long-running water row is now back in the spotlight.


Tamil Nadu seeks legal action against DK Shivakumar

Karnataka Chief Minister has issued a strong warning over gutka and pan masala products, stating that a complete ban could be imposed if harmful toxic substances are found in them. The statement has sparked fresh debate over public health risks linked to chewing tobacco products and their widespread consumption.


Karnataka CM warns of ban on gutka and pan masala over toxic concerns

After Congress had a major victory in the Karnataka Assembly elections held on May 10, all eyes are now on the party's top leadership on their pick for the chief minister in the southern Indian state.

During the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting in Bengaluru on Sunday evening, the newly elected MLAs passed a one-line resolution authorising Congress President Malikarjun Kharge to take a call on the matter.

"The Congress Legislature Party unanimously resolves that AICC President is hereby authorised to appoint the new leader of the Congress Legislature Party," the resolution stated.

The race is reportedly between Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) Chief DK Shivakumar and former Karnataka CM Siddaramiah.

As the suspense builds up over who is going to be the next chief minister of the state, Siddaramiah left for the national capital Delhi to meet the top leadership of the party.

On the other hand, Shivakumar, who is also celebrating his birthday today, said that he has already done his duty, adding that he now leaves it to the party's high command to decide.

"We have passed a one-line resolution. We will leave it to the party's high command. I have not decided to go to Delhi. I have done whatever job I have to do," said the KPCC chief.

Asked if he will leave for Delhi or not, he said, "Still haven't decided whether to go or not."

He added, "I have not decided to go to Delhi. Because a lot of people are coming from across the state and I have small rituals in my house as today is my birthday. There is some puja [religious rituals] and I have to go to some temples."

<h2>Mallikarjun Kharge will not take long to announce of next Karnataka CM: Randeep Singh Surjewala</h2>

All India Congress Committee (AICC)'s leader in charge of Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, told the media that Mallikarjun Kharge would not take long to announce the name of the next chief minister of the state.

"Party leadership will take a decision. I can't replace my judgement with Kharge sahab's judgement. He is our senior, and as you all know him. He is the son of the soil of Karnataka, and I'm sure he will not take very long," he said.

"The winning party will be in the first cabinet when we will implement our first five guarantees," he added while responding to a query on plans for the oath-taking ceremony after the decision on the new CM of Karnataka.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After Congress had a major victory in the Karnataka Assembly elections held on May 10, all eyes are now on the party's top leadership on their pick for the chief minister in the southern Indian state.

After Congress had a major victory in the Karnataka Assembly elections held on May 10, all eyes are now on the party's top leadership on their pick for the chief minister in the southern Indian state. During the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting in Bengaluru on Sunday evening, the newly elected MLAs passed a one-line resolution authorising Congress President Malikarjun Kharge to take a call on the matter. "The Congress Legislature Party unanimously resolves that AICC President is hereby authorised to appoint the new leader of the Congress Legislature Party," the resolution stated. The race is reportedly between Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) Chief DK Shivakumar and former Karnataka CM Siddaramiah. As the suspense builds up over who is going to be the next chief minister of the state, Siddaramiah left for the national capital Delhi to meet the top leadership of the party. On the other hand, Shivakumar, who is also celebrating his birthday today, said that he has already done his duty, adding that he now leaves it to the party's high command to decide. "We have passed a one-line resolution. We will leave it to the party's high command. I have not decided to go to Delhi. I have done whatever job I have to do," said the KPCC chief. Asked if he will leave for Delhi or not, he said, "Still haven't decided whether to go or not." He added, "I have not decided to go to Delhi. Because a lot of people are coming from across the state and I have small rituals in my house as today is my birthday. There is some puja [religious rituals] and I have to go to some temples." Mallikarjun Kharge will not take long to announce of next Karnataka CM: Randeep Singh Surjewala All India Congress Committee (AICC)'s leader in charge of Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, told the media that Mallikarjun Kharge would not take long to announce the name of the next chief minister of the state. "Party leadership will take a decision. I can't replace my judgement with Kharge sahab's judgement. He is our senior, and as you all know him. He is the son of the soil of Karnataka, and I'm sure he will not take very long," he said. "The winning party will be in the first cabinet when we will implement our first five guarantees," he added while responding to a query on plans for the oath-taking ceremony after the decision on the new CM of Karnataka. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Karnataka Election Results 2023: DK Shivakumar or Siddaramaiah, who will be the next chief minister?

In the last one week, the South India state of Karnataka has witnessed three cases of rash driving - all involving luxury cars and powerful people.&nbsp;

While two incidents took place in the heart of Bengaluru city, the IT capital of India, the latest incident is reported from Ballari district.&nbsp;

On Monday, in Ballari district's Hospet Taluk, two were killed and three got injured when a luxury car went out of control and overturned on NH 50. The deceased were identified as 19-year-old Ravi Naik, a pedestrian who was sipping tea at a roadside stall and 27-year-old Sachin was inside the car. Ravi was said to have been dragged for about a 100 metres after the collision and died on the spot. The three injured have been identified as Shivakumar, Rakesh and Varun, all residents of Bengaluru. However, on Thursday Congress leaders alleged that the man behind the vehicle was Sharat, son of Revenue Minister R Ashoka.&nbsp;

"The incident occurred 4-days back and an FIR has already been filed. It family who lost their kin have filed a complaint against those who were present on location. The inquiry is ongoing and as a minister I have no involvement. Law is different and we respect law. Hundreds of people have witnessed the accident." said Ashoka.&nbsp;

Upon being asked whether Sharat was present on location during the incident the minister merely stated that he will not comment on an ongoing enquiry.&nbsp;

Sources claim that the car is registered in the name of a prominent chain of school and R Ashoka is associated with the school management as well. It is also being said that Sharat who was injured in the incident is undergoing treatment at home.&nbsp;

But this is not the only incident. Former Congress Minister NA Harris' son, Mohammed Nalapad surrendered before the police on Wednesday as he was accused of driving a Bentley that swerved out of control in Bengaluru's Mekri Circle. Three people, including a six-year-old boy were injured in the incident. Interestingly the police issued a notice Nalapad despite one Balakrishna claiming responsibility for the incident. The police said that they had evidence to prove that Nalapad was behind the wheels of the Bentley.&nbsp;

'We have questioned him(Nalapad) and then granted bail. Investigations are ongoing. We will collect all the required evidence against the accused.' said Dr Ravikante Gowda, Addl CP(Traffic), Bengaluru. However, Nalapad has alleged that the development is a conspiracy against him. 'If there is evidence, let them prove it. I am going to court. I will fight it out till I can. I know there are people behind this and they are trying to frame me.' said the Congress leader's son who is out on bail in a pub assault case. &nbsp;

Another such case of lawlessness was witnessed on Sunday when three Lamborghinis were attempting to race in the crowded Central business district of the city. A dramatic 6-second video that emerged showed the brightly coloured green Lamborghini swerve out of control and ram into a traffic police post. The man behind the wheel, businessman Sunny Sabarwal, even took a picture with the damaged traffic police post and uploaded it on his social media profile. Sunny Sabarwal is the son of a co-owner of a famous amusement park in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

Three different incidents, involving(allegedly) three rich kids in three luxurious vehicles. Entitled arrogance, is sure on display on the streets in Karnataka. Will these powerful culprits be brought to book?

In the last one week, the South India state of Karnataka has witnessed three cases of rash driving - all involving luxury cars and powerful people. While two incidents took place in the heart of Bengaluru city, the IT capital of India, the latest incident is reported from Ballari district.

In the last one week, the South India state of Karnataka has witnessed three cases of rash driving - all involving luxury cars and powerful people. While two incidents took place in the heart of Bengaluru city, the IT capital of India, the latest incident is reported from Ballari district. On Monday, in Ballari district's Hospet Taluk, two were killed and three got injured when a luxury car went out of control and overturned on NH 50. The deceased were identified as 19-year-old Ravi Naik, a pedestrian who was sipping tea at a roadside stall and 27-year-old Sachin was inside the car. Ravi was said to have been dragged for about a 100 metres after the collision and died on the spot. The three injured have been identified as Shivakumar, Rakesh and Varun, all residents of Bengaluru. However, on Thursday Congress leaders alleged that the man behind the vehicle was Sharat, son of Revenue Minister R Ashoka. "The incident occurred 4-days back and an FIR has already been filed. It family who lost their kin have filed a complaint against those who were present on location. The inquiry is ongoing and as a minister I have no involvement. Law is different and we respect law. Hundreds of people have witnessed the accident." said Ashoka. Upon being asked whether Sharat was present on location during the incident the minister merely stated that he will not comment on an ongoing enquiry. Sources claim that the car is registered in the name of a prominent chain of school and R Ashoka is associated with the school management as well. It is also being said that Sharat who was injured in the incident is undergoing treatment at home. But this is not the only incident. Former Congress Minister NA Harris' son, Mohammed Nalapad surrendered before the police on Wednesday as he was accused of driving a Bentley that swerved out of control in Bengaluru's Mekri Circle. Three people, including a six-year-old boy were injured in the incident. Interestingly the police issued a notice Nalapad despite one Balakrishna claiming responsibility for the incident. The police said that they had evidence to prove that Nalapad was behind the wheels of the Bentley. 'We have questioned him(Nalapad) and then granted bail. Investigations are ongoing. We will collect all the required evidence against the accused.' said Dr Ravikante Gowda, Addl CP(Traffic), Bengaluru. However, Nalapad has alleged that the development is a conspiracy against him. 'If there is evidence, let them prove it. I am going to court. I will fight it out till I can. I know there are people behind this and they are trying to frame me.' said the Congress leader's son who is out on bail in a pub assault case. Another such case of lawlessness was witnessed on Sunday when three Lamborghinis were attempting to race in the crowded Central business district of the city. A dramatic 6-second video that emerged showed the brightly coloured green Lamborghini swerve out of control and ram into a traffic police post. The man behind the wheel, businessman Sunny Sabarwal, even took a picture with the damaged traffic police post and uploaded it on his social media profile. Sunny Sabarwal is the son of a co-owner of a famous amusement park in Bengaluru. Three different incidents, involving(allegedly) three rich kids in three luxurious vehicles. Entitled arrogance, is sure on display on the streets in Karnataka. Will these powerful culprits be brought to book?

Three accidents, three powerful kids, three luxurious vehicles

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the Delhi High Court order granting bail to Congress leader DK Shivakumar in alleged connection with a money-laundering case being probed by the agency.

On October 23, the Delhi High Court had granted bail to Shivakumar while taking into note that he had been extensively interrogated by the probe agency since his arrest on September 3.

It had said that there was no material on record to show that he was a flight risk and there was no chance of tampering of evidence as all files are already under the custody of the agency.

Shivakumar had approached the High Court challenging the trial court`s order denying him bail.

He was arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

While granting him the bail, the High Court had asked him not to influence witnesses, tamper with evidence, leave the country without prior permission to the court and make himself available for investigation when required.

The alleged money laundering case was registered against him by the ED in September last year, based on a complaint filed the Income Tax Department, alleging tax evasion and hawala transactions amounting to crores.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the Delhi High Court order granting bail to Congress leader DK Shivakumar in alleged connection with a money-laundering case being probed by the agency.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the Delhi High Court order granting bail to Congress leader DK Shivakumar in alleged connection with a money-laundering case being probed by the agency. On October 23, the Delhi High Court had granted bail to Shivakumar while taking into note that he had been extensively interrogated by the probe agency since his arrest on September 3. It had said that there was no material on record to show that he was a flight risk and there was no chance of tampering of evidence as all files are already under the custody of the agency. Shivakumar had approached the High Court challenging the trial court`s order denying him bail. He was arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). While granting him the bail, the High Court had asked him not to influence witnesses, tamper with evidence, leave the country without prior permission to the court and make himself available for investigation when required. The alleged money laundering case was registered against him by the ED in September last year, based on a complaint filed the Income Tax Department, alleging tax evasion and hawala transactions amounting to crores.

Enforcement Directorate moves Supreme Court against Delhi High Court order granting bail to Shivakumar

Congress MP DK Suresh, whose brother DK Shivakumar is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with money laundering case, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) here on Thursday.

This comes two days after the Delhi court extended Congress leader Shivakumar's judicial custody till October 15.

The court had allowed the ED to interrogate Shivakumar on October 4 and 5 in the Tihar Jail.

The leader was arrested by the agency on September 3 and was sent to judicial custody in Tihar jail on September 17. Prior to that, he was in ED's custody for 14 days.

He was produced before the court yesterday on the culmination of his remand period.

The money laundering case was registered against him by the ED in September last year, based on a complaint filed by the Income Tax department, alleging tax evasion, hawala transactions running into crores.

 
&nbsp;

Congress MP DK Suresh, whose brother DK Shivakumar is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with money laundering case, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) here on Thursday.

Congress MP DK Suresh, whose brother DK Shivakumar is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with money laundering case, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) here on Thursday. This comes two days after the Delhi court extended Congress leader Shivakumar's judicial custody till October 15. The court had allowed the ED to interrogate Shivakumar on October 4 and 5 in the Tihar Jail. The leader was arrested by the agency on September 3 and was sent to judicial custody in Tihar jail on September 17. Prior to that, he was in ED's custody for 14 days. He was produced before the court yesterday on the culmination of his remand period. The money laundering case was registered against him by the ED in September last year, based on a complaint filed by the Income Tax department, alleging tax evasion, hawala transactions running into crores.

Delhi: Shivakumar's brother, DK Suresh appears before Enforcement Directorate

Amid ongoing political turmoil in Karnataka, Congress leader <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-crisis-congress-minister-shivakumar-arrives-in-mumbai-to-meet-rebel-mlas-234501&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjxh8fgmbHjAhWMFYgKHZOGBXYQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0hrXppdMDWkpIabkqj_GVs">DK Shivakumar</a> visited the residence of Congress MLA and state minister MTB Nagaraj early on Saturday morning to convince him to take back his resignation.&nbsp;

Hoskote MLA Nagaraj and Chikballapur Congress MLA Dr. K Sudhakar resigned from the Assembly on July 10.

Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar had ruled out accepting their resignations "overnight".&nbsp;

"Two MLAs Dr. K Sudhakar and MTB Nagaraj have resigned from the Assembly.&nbsp;

I have not accepted any resignation, I cannot do it overnight like that.&nbsp;

I have given them time on the 17th.&nbsp;

I will go through the procedure and take a decision," Kumar had said on July 10 while speaking to media persons in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-crisis-kumaraswamy-reaches-bengaluru-will-hold-meet-with-jds-congress-leaders-233825&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZy7WimrHjAhUGfd4KHROnDbg4ChAWMAR6BAgDEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw1JsU9U9APZbRbYdrXYY_-i">Bengaluru</a>.

Meanwhile, on Friday, the Supreme Court took up the pleas of 10 dissident MLAs and directed the Speaker to maintain the status quo on their resignation and disqualification till July 16.

The 13-month-old <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-jds-alliance-going-strong-despite-efforts-to-destabilise-kumaraswamy-235169&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjxh8fgmbHjAhWMFYgKHZOGBXYQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1vg0QtHQcrOK6Uzk45f6uJ">Congress-JD(S) government</a> slumped into crisis following the resignation of 10 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly last week.

Amid ongoing political turmoil in Karnataka, Congress leader DK Shivakumar visited the residence of Congress MLA and state minister MTB Nagaraj early on Saturday morning to convince him to take back his resignation.

Amid ongoing political turmoil in Karnataka, Congress leader DK Shivakumar visited the residence of Congress MLA and state minister MTB Nagaraj early on Saturday morning to convince him to take back his resignation. Hoskote MLA Nagaraj and Chikballapur Congress MLA Dr. K Sudhakar resigned from the Assembly on July 10. Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar had ruled out accepting their resignations "overnight". "Two MLAs Dr. K Sudhakar and MTB Nagaraj have resigned from the Assembly. I have not accepted any resignation, I cannot do it overnight like that. I have given them time on the 17th. I will go through the procedure and take a decision," Kumar had said on July 10 while speaking to media persons in Bengaluru. Meanwhile, on Friday, the Supreme Court took up the pleas of 10 dissident MLAs and directed the Speaker to maintain the status quo on their resignation and disqualification till July 16. The 13-month-old Congress-JD(S) government slumped into crisis following the resignation of 10 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly last week.

Shivakumar meets rebel Congress MLA MTB Nagaraj in Bengaluru, asks to reconsider resignation

Karnataka Congress Minister DK Shivakumar and JD(S) MLA Shivalinge Gowda on Wednesday arrived in Mumbai on a special flight from Bengaluru to meet rebel MLAs amid political <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-crisis-assembly-speaker-writes-to-governor-asks-rebel-mlas-to-meet-him-234261">turmoil in the state</a>.

Meanwhile, security has been increased outside Hotel Renaissance in Powai in Mumbai where the 10 dissident Karnataka Congress-JD(S) MLAs are staying.

Maharashtra State Reserve Police Force and Riot Control Police have been deployed outside the hotel.

When asked about the heavy security deployed outside the hotel ahead of his visit, Shivakumar told ANI,&nbsp;"Let Mumbai Police or any other force be deployed. Let them do their duty. We have come to meet our friends.

We were born together in politics, we will die together in politics.

They are our party men. We have come to meet them.

"The security has been tightened as the disgruntled MLAs had earlier written a letter to Mumbai Commissioner of Police seeking protection, stating "We have heard Chief Minister and DK Shivakumar are going to storm the hotel, we feel threatened."

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DK Shivakumar,outside Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel: I've booked a room here. My friends are staying here.There has been a small problem, we've to hold negotiations.We can't go for a divorce immediately. There is no question of threatening, we love&amp;respect each other <a href="https://t.co/RRcazlhbRq">pic.twitter.com/RRcazlhbRq</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1148790855060398080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We the following elected members of Legislative Assembly of the state of Karnataka are staying at Hotel Renaissance Powai in Mumbai. We have heard that Shri Kumaraswamy and DK Shivakumar and others are going to storm in the hotel premises, we feel threatened for the same," read the letter written by the legislators.

"We do not want to meet him (Shivakumar), kind request to help us in this matter and do not allow them to enter the hotel premises," the MLAs added in the letter.

Among the MLAs who have signed the letter are Shivram Hebbar, Pratap Gowda Patil, BC Patil, ST Somshekar, Ramesh Jarkiholi, Byrati Basavraj, Gopalaiyya, H Vishwanath, Narayan Gowda, and Mahesh Kumutali.

Meanwhile, Mumbai Police stated that "Karnataka Minister DK Shivakumar will not be allowed inside the hotel where 10 rebel Karnataka Congress-JD(S) MLAs are staying". However, "He will not be stopped before the gates of the hotel," police said.

The 13-month old Congress-JD(S) government slumped into crisis following the resignation of 11 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly last week.

The state Assembly has 225 members, including one nominated MLA. The halfway mark in the 225-member Assembly is 113.

The Congress-JD(S) coalition is making all efforts to protect its government which seems to have fallen short of a majority.

Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has also claimed that they will overcome the crisis.

All the ministers from the two parties have resigned paving way for the restructuring of the state Cabinet in a bid to accommodate the dissident MLAs.

The Congress party has been constantly accusing the BJP of conspiring to topple Congress-JD(S) coalition government in Karnataka.

However, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in his reply in Parliament, asserted that his party is committed to parliamentary democracy and has no relation with the developments in Karnataka.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Karnataka Congress Minister DK Shivakumar and JD(S) MLA Shivalinge Gowda on Wednesday arrived in Mumbai on a special flight from Bengaluru to meet rebel MLAs amid political turmoil in the state.

Karnataka Congress Minister DK Shivakumar and JD(S) MLA Shivalinge Gowda on Wednesday arrived in Mumbai on a special flight from Bengaluru to meet rebel MLAs amid political turmoil in the state. Meanwhile, security has been increased outside Hotel Renaissance in Powai in Mumbai where the 10 dissident Karnataka Congress-JD(S) MLAs are staying. Maharashtra State Reserve Police Force and Riot Control Police have been deployed outside the hotel. When asked about the heavy security deployed outside the hotel ahead of his visit, Shivakumar told ANI, "Let Mumbai Police or any other force be deployed. Let them do their duty. We have come to meet our friends. We were born together in politics, we will die together in politics. They are our party men. We have come to meet them. "The security has been tightened as the disgruntled MLAs had earlier written a letter to Mumbai Commissioner of Police seeking protection, stating "We have heard Chief Minister and DK Shivakumar are going to storm the hotel, we feel threatened." DK Shivakumar,outside Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel: I've booked a room here. My friends are staying here.There has been a small problem, we've to hold negotiations.We can't go for a divorce immediately. There is no question of threatening, we love&respect each other pic.twitter.com/RRcazlhbRq — ANI (@ANI) July 10, 2019 × "We the following elected members of Legislative Assembly of the state of Karnataka are staying at Hotel Renaissance Powai in Mumbai. We have heard that Shri Kumaraswamy and DK Shivakumar and others are going to storm in the hotel premises, we feel threatened for the same," read the letter written by the legislators. "We do not want to meet him (Shivakumar), kind request to help us in this matter and do not allow them to enter the hotel premises," the MLAs added in the letter. Among the MLAs who have signed the letter are Shivram Hebbar, Pratap Gowda Patil, BC Patil, ST Somshekar, Ramesh Jarkiholi, Byrati Basavraj, Gopalaiyya, H Vishwanath, Narayan Gowda, and Mahesh Kumutali. Meanwhile, Mumbai Police stated that "Karnataka Minister DK Shivakumar will not be allowed inside the hotel where 10 rebel Karnataka Congress-JD(S) MLAs are staying". However, "He will not be stopped before the gates of the hotel," police said. The 13-month old Congress-JD(S) government slumped into crisis following the resignation of 11 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly last week. The state Assembly has 225 members, including one nominated MLA. The halfway mark in the 225-member Assembly is 113. The Congress-JD(S) coalition is making all efforts to protect its government which seems to have fallen short of a majority. Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has also claimed that they will overcome the crisis. All the ministers from the two parties have resigned paving way for the restructuring of the state Cabinet in a bid to accommodate the dissident MLAs. The Congress party has been constantly accusing the BJP of conspiring to topple Congress-JD(S) coalition government in Karnataka. However, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in his reply in Parliament, asserted that his party is committed to parliamentary democracy and has no relation with the developments in Karnataka.

Karnataka crisis: Congress minister Shivakumar arrives in Mumbai to meet rebel MLAs

Amid the ongoing political turmoil in Karnataka following the resignation of 11 MLAs of the Congress-JD(S) coalition, Irrigation Minister and senior Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Saturday accepted that he tore the resignation letters of some of the dissident MLAs."Why should I not? Let them file a complaint. If they want to put me behind the bars, I'm ready. I am already facing a lot of issues. I don't mind about all these things. I have taken a very big risk. Definitely, I won't say no. I know someone has recorded it. Let him release it. What is wrong in it," he said while talking to reporters.

He was responding to media questions about the allegations that he tore the resignation of the some of the MLAs.

"To protect my party... to protect my friends...they have been with me. I have fought their election. I went to their election. I have contributed to their election in my own way. As a party worker, I have done it. I should not see that they have been misguided," he added.

Earlier in the day, BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa had alleged that SK Shivakumar tore the resignation of some of the MLAs inside the Speaker's office.

"People are watching the way DK Shivakumar is behaving. He tore the resignation letters of some of the MLAs inside the Speaker's office, who had gone to resign. It is condemnable," he had said.

Shivakumar, however, said that "good sense" will prevail upon them (dissident MLAs).

"They have been hurt by the system. They are saying some small stories. This is not the story to go and resign. But it is shocking to all of us. I think that good sense will prevail upon all of them. There is a lot of time. There is a procedure involved in this. Let us see. My BJP friends are doing their best," he said.

This comes after rebel JD(S) MLA H Vishwanath claimed that 14 MLAs have tendered their resignations to Speaker AR Ramesh Kumar.

Vishwanath's claim comes in the backdrop of dramatic developments on Saturday when 11 of the coalition MLAs handed over their resignation to the Speaker`s office pushing the government into a minority.

Amid the ongoing political turmoil in Karnataka following the resignation of 11 MLAs of the Congress-JD(S) coalition, Irrigation Minister and senior Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Saturday accepted that he tore the resignation letters of some of the dissident MLAs.

Amid the ongoing political turmoil in Karnataka following the resignation of 11 MLAs of the Congress-JD(S) coalition, Irrigation Minister and senior Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Saturday accepted that he tore the resignation letters of some of the dissident MLAs."Why should I not? Let them file a complaint. If they want to put me behind the bars, I'm ready. I am already facing a lot of issues. I don't mind about all these things. I have taken a very big risk. Definitely, I won't say no. I know someone has recorded it. Let him release it. What is wrong in it," he said while talking to reporters. He was responding to media questions about the allegations that he tore the resignation of the some of the MLAs. "To protect my party... to protect my friends...they have been with me. I have fought their election. I went to their election. I have contributed to their election in my own way. As a party worker, I have done it. I should not see that they have been misguided," he added. Earlier in the day, BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa had alleged that SK Shivakumar tore the resignation of some of the MLAs inside the Speaker's office. "People are watching the way DK Shivakumar is behaving. He tore the resignation letters of some of the MLAs inside the Speaker's office, who had gone to resign. It is condemnable," he had said. Shivakumar, however, said that "good sense" will prevail upon them (dissident MLAs). "They have been hurt by the system. They are saying some small stories. This is not the story to go and resign. But it is shocking to all of us. I think that good sense will prevail upon all of them. There is a lot of time. There is a procedure involved in this. Let us see. My BJP friends are doing their best," he said. This comes after rebel JD(S) MLA H Vishwanath claimed that 14 MLAs have tendered their resignations to Speaker AR Ramesh Kumar. Vishwanath's claim comes in the backdrop of dramatic developments on Saturday when 11 of the coalition MLAs handed over their resignation to the Speaker`s office pushing the government into a minority.

Karnataka crisis: Congress leader and Minister Shivakumar accepts he tore resignation letters of dissident MLAs

After being grilled by the Income Tax (IT) sleuths for three consecutive days in connection with an alleged tax evasion case, Karnataka Minister DK Shivakumar Saturday said he has not violated the law and the truth will eventually come out.

In a swoop down that raised a political storm, the IT department on Wednesday began its searches on various properties linked to Shivakumar, who is hosting 44 Gujarat Congress MLAs at a resort on city outskirts to forestall alleged attempts by the BJP to poach on them ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls.

Ahmed Patel, political secretary to Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, is locked in a bitter fight in the election.

&quot;I&#39;m not the kind of person that violates the law and the Constitution...The truth will come out,&quot; he told reporters after emerging from his residence at a posh locality here.

Without divulging any details on the searches conducted at various properties linked to him, the power minister said, &quot;Only after I get the entire panchnama and the documentation will I speak to you.&quot;

During the searches at about 66 places across the country in connection with a case of alleged tax evasion, IT officials said they have seized cash and jewellery worth over Rs 15 crore have so far.

Shivakumar, who hails from the Vokkaliga community, has considerable influence in Bengaluru Rural and neighbouring Ramanagara districts.

He is also the Congress&#39; propaganda committee chief ahead of the 2018 Assembly polls.

The 55-year-old minister, considered a resourceful trouble shooter for the Congress with proximity to the party high command, is a six-time MLA.

Thanking the party and its leadership for backing him, Shivakumar said, &quot;All my leaders across the country have stood by me in the crisis...I don&#39;t want to embarrass my party and I will not.&quot;

&quot;At no point in time&nbsp;will I let down my leaders and my party,&quot; he added.

Despite repeated queries from the press about the raids, Shivakumar said he would discuss&nbsp;in detail later.

&quot;I will speak to you later.. I&#39;m going to a temple, then I&#39;m going to the resort where MLAs are lodged,&quot; he said.

&quot;Things have been discussed, deliberated at various levels...I don&#39;t want to tell anything now,&quot; he added.

When asked whether the IT searches were complete, Shivakumar said, &quot;You saw the officials walking out.&quot; 
 
&quot;I don&#39;t know,&quot; he said when asked about the raids in other places.

&quot;I have got to know that it (raids) has happened at 70 or 80 places only through you...Please find out yourself,&quot; he said.

On Wednesday, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in a statement had alleged that the IT department action was an attempt to silence the voice against the BJP.

He had yesterday termed the IT raids against Shivakumar a &quot;politically motivated&quot; move on part of the Centre.

The Karnataka government has expressed its &quot;strong protest&quot; to the Centre over the use of CRPF personnel during searches, saying it cast aspersion on the state police.

The raids at the resort on August 2 sparked a huge political row with Parliament getting disrupted and the Congress terming it an &quot;unprecedented witch-hunt&quot; to win one Rajya Sabha seat.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Income Tax department on Wednesday began its searches on various properties linked to Shivakumar, who is hosting 44 Gujarat Congress MLAs at a resort

After being grilled by the Income Tax (IT) sleuths for three consecutive days in connection with an alleged tax evasion case, Karnataka Minister DK Shivakumar Saturday said he has not violated the law and the truth will eventually come out. In a swoop down that raised a political storm, the IT department on Wednesday began its searches on various properties linked to Shivakumar, who is hosting 44 Gujarat Congress MLAs at a resort on city outskirts to forestall alleged attempts by the BJP to poach on them ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls. Ahmed Patel, political secretary to Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, is locked in a bitter fight in the election. "I'm not the kind of person that violates the law and the Constitution...The truth will come out," he told reporters after emerging from his residence at a posh locality here. Without divulging any details on the searches conducted at various properties linked to him, the power minister said, "Only after I get the entire panchnama and the documentation will I speak to you." During the searches at about 66 places across the country in connection with a case of alleged tax evasion, IT officials said they have seized cash and jewellery worth over Rs 15 crore have so far. Shivakumar, who hails from the Vokkaliga community, has considerable influence in Bengaluru Rural and neighbouring Ramanagara districts. He is also the Congress' propaganda committee chief ahead of the 2018 Assembly polls. The 55-year-old minister, considered a resourceful trouble shooter for the Congress with proximity to the party high command, is a six-time MLA. Thanking the party and its leadership for backing him, Shivakumar said, "All my leaders across the country have stood by me in the crisis...I don't want to embarrass my party and I will not." "At no point in time will I let down my leaders and my party," he added. Despite repeated queries from the press about the raids, Shivakumar said he would discuss in detail later. "I will speak to you later.. I'm going to a temple, then I'm going to the resort where MLAs are lodged," he said. "Things have been discussed, deliberated at various levels...I don't want to tell anything now," he added. When asked whether the IT searches were complete, Shivakumar said, "You saw the officials walking out." "I don't know," he said when asked about the raids in other places. "I have got to know that it (raids) has happened at 70 or 80 places only through you...Please find out yourself," he said. On Wednesday, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in a statement had alleged that the IT department action was an attempt to silence the voice against the BJP. He had yesterday termed the IT raids against Shivakumar a "politically motivated" move on part of the Centre. The Karnataka government has expressed its "strong protest" to the Centre over the use of CRPF personnel during searches, saying it cast aspersion on the state police. The raids at the resort on August 2 sparked a huge political row with Parliament getting disrupted and the Congress terming it an "unprecedented witch-hunt" to win one Rajya Sabha seat.

Truth will eventually come out, says Shivakumar after IT raids conclude

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