K’taka Crisis: Siddaramaiah Meets Rebel MLA Ramalinga Reddy
Catch all the live updates on the Karnataka coalition government crisis here.
BJP state president BS Yeddyurappa on Sunday, 14 July, said that he will request Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy to resign immediately.
Meanwhile, Rebel Congress MLA MTB Nagaraj, who had announced that he will stay with the Congress, was seen taking a chartered flight to Mumbai on Sunday.
On Saturday, 13 July, senior Congress leaders including DK Shivakumar, and deputy CM G Parameshwara met with Nagaraj to convince him to withdraw his resignation.
Five more MLAs on Saturday moved the Supreme Court against the Speaker for not accepting their resignations.
Karnataka Speaker Ramesh Kumar said he will take a call on trust vote sought by CM Kumaraswamy by Monday, 15 July.
- The Supreme Court on Friday, 12 July, ordered status quo with regard to resignation and disqualification of 10 rebel MLAs
- The top court will hear the matter at length on Tuesday, 16 July
- A call on the date and time of the trust vote called by CM Kumaraswamy will be taken on Monday, 15 July when the Assembly session resumes
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14 Karnataka MLAs Stationed near Pune, Waiting for Speaker's Decision on Resignation
Fourteen MLAs of Karnataka's ruling coalition are in a place about 90 km from Pune and will wait for the Speaker's decision on their resignations before taking a call on proceeding to Goa or returning to Bengaluru, sources told PTI.
The 14 MLAs, at the centre of the crisis in the JD(S)-Congress government, had been staying in a luxury hotel in Mumbai and left on Monday evening for Goa.
But they are presently stationed at a location 90 km from Pune, towards Satara, in Maharashtra, the sources said.
Congress Urges Speaker to Disqualify MLAs Colluding With BJP
After the Congress Legislature Party meet ended in Bengaluru, Former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said the party has decided to file a petition with the Speaker to disqualify the MLAs who have colluded with the BJP.
He added, “We also request that not only should they be disqualified but they should not also contest election again for 6 years. That is one of the prayers in our letter.”
He said, “According to us it is anti-party activity. They have colluded with the BJP and these people are trapped. Even now I request them to come back. Withdraw their resignation.”
Congress MLA Roshan Baig Resigns
The Congress-JD(S) coalition government in Karnataka, on Tuesday, 9 July, suffered another blow following the resignation of Shivajinagar Congress MLA R Roshan Baig.
"Today I have submitted my resignation from the Karnataka Assembly to the Speaker," Baig told reporters at Vidhana Soudha after coming out of the office of Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar.
The suspended Congress MLA made it clear he would not fly to Mumbai or Delhi, unlike the other disgruntled MLAs who have camped in a Mumbai hotel.
"I am not going to Mumbai or Delhi. Being the chairman of the State Hajj committee, I am going to the airport to oversee arrangements for the Hajj pilgrims," Baig said.
Will Not Accept Resignations Unless Given Personally: Karnataka Speaker
Asked whether he would accept the resignations submitted to his office, Karnataka Speaker Ramesh Kumar said, "If everything happens through postal correspondence, then I'm not required at all." He had earlier said that no MLAs have sorted appointment with him.
Resigned Due to Lack of Development in Karnataka: Rebel JD(S) MLA
One of the rebel JD(S) MLA in Mumbai, Narayan Gowda, said, “We've resigned from MLA post due to lack of development in the state. Karnataka CM travelled abroad without consultation with MLAs, no work was progressing in the state. We will stay here for 2 days and then we will return.”
Congress Stage Walkout After Uproar in Lok Sabha
The Congress on Tuesday, 8 July, staged a walkout in Lok Sabha after accusing the BJP of indulging in "politics of poaching" in Karnataka, a charge denied by the ruling party at the Centre.
The Congress tried to raise the issue in Lok Sabha during the Zero Hour, but was disallowed by Speaker Om Birla, who said the matter was discussed in the House on Monday with a response from Deputy Leader of House Rajnath Singh.
Birla said the Congress had given an adjournment motion to discuss the Karnataka issue, which he has disallowed.
With the Speaker refusing to relent, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, Leader of the Congress in Lok Sabha, said the BJP was targeting the Karnataka government, which is on a brink of collapse after the Congress, JD(S) and some independent MLAs tendered their resignations.
Hitting back, Singh said the Karnataka issue was an internal matter of the Congress.
CM Kumaraswamy Reaches Bengaluru Hotel Where JD(S) MLAs Are Staying
CM HD Kumaraswamy has reached Prestige Golfshire Club, Nandi hills road in Devanahalli, where Janata Dal (Secular) MLAs are staying.
Wrote a Letter to Governor Saying No MLA Has Met Me: Karnataka Speaker
Karnataka Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar declined to accept the resignations of all the 13 Congress and JD(S) rebel legislators, as eight were not in the prescribed format and five needed explanations to ensure they were in accordance with the anti-defection law. He added, “I have written a letter to Governor saying that none of the MLAs have met me. Governor has written to me a second letter that independent MLA Nagesh has resigned. I can't do anything about the ministers, I don't know why Governor has written to me about them.”
He said, “On 6 July, I was in office till 12.30pm, none of the legislators sought appontment from me. They came to office at 1.30 pm and handed their resignations. Out of 13, 8 are not according to the prescribed rules under rule 202 under Karntaka legislature procedure. (Only the letters by Anand Singh,Ramalinga Reddy, Narayan Gowda , Pratap Gouda Patil and Gopaliah are in proper format) If they are intent on reiterating their stance, they should do according to proper rules. The remaining 5, I'm giving them two days time. I'm calling three of them (Anand Singh, Narayan Gowda and Pratap Gowda Patil) on 12 July to meet me personally even though there is Assembly. I have called two others (Ramalinga Reddy and Gopalaiah) on 15 July. The 14th letter of Roshan Baig has reached me today and I have forwarded it to the secretariat office for scrutiny.”
CM Kumaraswamy Suggests Lodging JD(S) MLAs in Bengaluru Hotel For 4 Days
Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy has suggested JD(S) MLAs to be lodged at Prestige Golfshire Club in Bengaluru for at least 4 days, reported ANI quoting sources.
BJP MLAs Return From Speaker's Office Without Meeting Him
BJP MLAs went to Karnataka Assembly Speaker's office and left without meeting the Speaker, KR Ramesh Kumar, as he was not there, reported ANI.
DK Shivakumar Going to Meet Rebel MLAs in Mumbai
Senior Congress leader DK Shivakumar is heading to Mumbai to meet the rebel MLAs. He said, “I will go to meet my legislators, my friends. Have to speak some personal issues with them.”
'Will Meet Governor and Speaker Tomorrow': BJP's Arvind Limbavali
Amidst the coalition government crisis in Karnataka, BJP MLA Arvind Limbavali on Tuesday said that a high-level BJP delegation would be meeting the governor at 1 pm on Wednesday.
All BJP MLAs will also protest in front of the Vidhan Soudha at 11:30 am on Wednesday, he said, adding that CM Kumaraswamy has lost the mandate and he should resign.
Congress Holds Meeting in Bengaluru Amidst Crisis
As the crisis over the coalition government in Karnataka continues, a meeting of Congress leaders is underway in Bengaluru. Among those present are KC Venugopal, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Siddaramaiah, Dinesh Gundu Rao, Mallikarjun Kharge, Eshwar Khandre and Zameer Ahmad.
'Rebel MLAs Still in Mumbai, Never Left City Since Saturday'
Congress MLA BC Patil on Tuesday said that the rebel Karnataka MLAs were still in Mumbai, and never left the city since Saturday.
SIT Probing IMA Scam Issues Notice to Roshan Baig, Asks Him to Appear for Questioning
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the IMA scam has issued a notice to Congress MLA Roshan Baig asking him to appear for questioning on 11 July, hours after he gave his resignation letter to the Karnataka speaker.
DK Shivakumar to Meet Rebels in Mumbai on Wednesday
Congress troubleshooter DK Shivakumar is scheduled to meet the rebel Karnataka MLAs and ministers, who are camping in Mumbai, at 12 pm on Wednesday.
Democracy is Being Finished India: Ghulam Nabi After Cong Meet
Following the Congress leaders' meeting in Bengaluru on Tuesday, senior party leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said that democracy is “being finished” in India and the entire country is "anguished" at the way the BJP government at national level and Governors at the state level are conducting themselves.
Azad alleged that governments are being toppled and the Centre is using Governors for this.
"Arunachal Pradesh to Karnataka, Governors side with defectors and help them in coming out of Congress. We appeal to the nation to rise to the occasion to save this democracy," he told ANI.
'We Feel Threatened': 10 Rebel MLAs Seek Police Protection
10 rebel Karnataka Congress-JD(S) MLAs wrote to Mumbai Commissioner of Police and sought protection.
In the letter, the stated that they feel “threatened” as rumours suggest that CM Kumaraswamy will “storm” to their hotel in Mumbai.
"We are staying at Hotel Renaissance Powai in Mumbai. We have heard HD Kumaraswamy & DK Shivakumar are going to storm the hotel, we feel threatened. Do not allow them to enter hotel premises."
Nobody is Paying Us: Rebel JD(S) MLA Clears Air
Rebel Karnataka JD(S) MLA Narayana Gowda said that allegations of horse trading were not true adding nobody is "paying" the 13 MLAs.
"We told them our problems hundred times but they (State government) did not listen," he told ANI.
Rebel MLAs Write to Mumbai Police, Demand Security
Ten rebel MLAs from Karnataka wrote to the Mumbai Police Commissioner, demanding they not to allow Chief Minister Kumaraswamy and DK shivakumar in their hotel.
Shivakumar Arrives in Mumbai
Karnataka Minister DK Shivakumar and JD(S) MLA Shivalinge Gowda arrive in Mumbai.
The Maharashtra State Reserve Police Force & Riot Control Police are deployed outside the hotel where 10 rebel Karnataka Congress-JD(S) MLAs are staying.
Here to Meet Our Party Friends: Shivakumar in Mumbai
Karnataka Minister DK Shivakumar said that he was in Mumbai to meet his “friends”, referring to the 10 rebel MLAs.
“Let Mumbai Police or any other force be deployed. Let them do their duty. We've 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,” said Shivakumar.
Security Tightened Outside Mumbai Hotel
Security tightened outside Hotel Renaissance, where 10 rebel Karnataka Congress-JD(S) MLAs are staying.
Karnataka Minister DK Shivakumar is currently on his way from the airport to the hotel.
Gowda's Supporters Shout 'Go Back' as Shivakumar Expected to Arrive Shortly
Supporters of JD(S) leader Narayan Gowda, outside Renaissance hotel, raise slogans of "Go back, Go back" as Karnataka Minister DK Shivakumar is expected to arrive at the hotel shortly.
Love & Respect Each Other, Can't Go for Divorce: Shivakumar
DK Shivakumar has booked a room in the same hotel where the rebel MLAs are staying.
BJP to Sit on Dharna Outside Vidhan Soudha
Former Karmataka CM and BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa said that his party has decided to sit on dharna in front of Vidhana Soudha.
'Will Stay Here All Day,' Says DK Shivakumar After Being Refused Entry
"I won't go, I will wait here all day," said Karnataka minister DK Shivakumar as he was stopped from entering the hotel where the rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs are staying.
He accused the BJP of instigating the protests.
Hotel Cancels DK Shivakumar's Booking
DK Shivakumar's booking at Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel has been cancelled by the hotel quoting “an emergency.”
Rebel Cong-JD(S) MLAs Move SC Against Speaker
Rebel Congress and JD(S) MLAs from Karnataka moved the Supreme Court on Wednesday, 10 July, alleging the Speaker abandoned his constitutional duty by deliberately delaying the acceptance of their resignations.
It is likely to be heard in the apex court on Thursday, 11 July.
Rebel Cong MLAs Refuse to Meet Shivakumar
Rebel Congress MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi said that he was not interested in meeting Congress’ Shivakumar, adding that the BJP has not met him yet.
Echoing him, another rebel MLA B Basavara said that they respect Shivakumar but cannot meet him.
“We don't intend to insult DK Shivakumar. We've faith in him but there is a reason we have taken this step. Friendship, love and affection are on one side. We request him to understand why we cannot meet him today,” said Basavara.
Yeddyurappa, Other BJP Leaders Protest
Former Karnataka CM and BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa and other BJP leaders hold protest outside Vidhana Soudha.
Mumbai Police Impose Section 144 Outside MLAs' Hotel
Section 144 (prohibits assembly of more than 4 people in an area) was imposed in Powai Police station limits with effect from 9 July to 12 July, over "likelihood of breach of peace and disturbance of public tranquility"
Mumbai Police Remove Congress Workers
The Mumbai Police are reportedly Congress workers from main gate of Renaissance Hotel, where the rebel MLAs are staying.
'Local Cong Leaders Will Lend Support,' Says Milind Deora
Congress leader Milind Deora appealed to the Karnataka Congress workers to return to Bengaluru and said the local leaders will lend support to Shivakumar.
BJP Delegation to Meet Karnataka Speaker at 3 pm
BJP leader Yeddyurappa, protesting outside Vidhan Soudha, said that a BJP delegation will meet Karnataka Speaker at 3 pm.
He also questioned the Speaker for not condemning Congress leader DK Shivakumar for allegedly tearing up the resignation letters of rebel MLAs.
Yeddyurappa Meets Karnataka Guv
BJP leader Yeddyurappa met Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Valaji at Raj Bhavan, requesting him to cognizance of DK Shivakumar and H D Kumaraswamy “unconstitutional behaviour” and demanding that the government be sacked.
Deora, Nirupam Arrive at Renaissance Hotel
Senior Maharashtra Congress leaders Milind Deora, Sanjay Nirupam and Naseem Khan reach Renaissance Hotel to meet DK Shivakumar.
DK Shivakumar Being Denied Permission Worse Than Emergency: Deve Gowda
Former PM Deve Gowda, senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah and Ghulam Nabi Azad staged a protest in Bengaluru's Cubbon Park.
Rajya Sabha Adjourned Over Karnataka Political Drama
Rajya Sabha adjourned till 3 pm after uproar by Congress MPs over recent political developments in Karnataka.
Kumaraswamy Has No Moral Right to Continue as CM: Yeddyurappa
Following his meeting with Karnataka Governor, BJP leader Yeddyurappa said that he requested him to direct the Speaker to take necessary action.
He also added that Kumaraswamy does not have "moral right" to continue as chief minister.
DK Shivakumar, Other Congress Leaders Detained by Mumbai Police
Senior Congress leaders DK Shivakumar, Sanjay Nirupam and Milind Deora, who were camping outside Mumbai hotel where rebel Karnataka MLAs are lodged, detained by Mumbai Police.
Ghulam Nabi Azad, Other Cong Leaders Detained
Congress leaders including Ghulam Nabi Azad detained while protesting near Raj Bhawan in Bengaluru, reported ANI.
BJP Leaders' Meeting With Speaker Concludes
BJP leaders including Yeddyurappa emerge from meeting with Speaker but don’t address the media.
Shivakumar, Deora Put up in Kalina Rest House in Mumbai
Senior Congress leaders DK Shivakumar, Milind Deora and others who were detained, have been kept at Kalina University rest house. They were sitting outside Renaissance - Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel when they were detained by police.
Police Being Misused, Says Deora After Detention
Milind Deora, who has been detained by Mumbai police along with other senior Congress leaders, said the police and state machinery are being misused. He said, “We want these MLAs to go back to Karnataka and solve this issue in a Constitutional way.”
Two More Congress MLAs Submit Resignations
Deepening the political crisis in Karnataka, two more Congress MLAs, MTB Nagaraj and Sudhakar, offered their resignations to the speaker on Wednesday, 10 July.
After tendering his resignation, Nagaraj told reporters that he was "fed up" with politics and wished to retire from public life."I don't want any ministerial position or anything. I am fed up with politics," Nagaraj said.
Nagaraj and Sudhakar, who is State Pollution Control Board Chairman, came to the Speaker's office at about 4 pm and handed over resignation in their official letterhead to him.
Blackmark on Republic Setup of Our Country: CM HD Kumaraswamy
CM HD Kumaraswamy tweeted, “Manhandling Ministers and MLAs is very annoying and unbecoming of Mumbai Police. Such hasty act by Maharashtra Government reinforces the suspicion on BJP of horse trading. This is a blackmark on the republic setup of our country.”
Not Accepting Any Resignations Now: Karnataka Speaker
Karnataka speaker Ramesh Kumar told reporters on Wednesday, 10 July, said, “Today 2 more MLAs have resigned, K Sudhakar and MTB Nagaraj. As in the case of other MLAs, law will take its own course. The law cannot deviate from person to person, it is uniform for one and all.”
Ruckus Erupts in Karnataka Assembly After Congress Leaders take MLA Sudhakar By Force
Situation turned ugly in the Karnataka assembly after Congress leaders took Congress MLA K Sudhakar by force to minister KJ George's chamber, after he submitted his resignation.
'Confident That All MLAs Will Come Back': DK Shivakumar
Congress Minister DK Shivakumar, who was earlier detained by Mumbai Police, told reporters on Wednesday, 10 July, evening, “I am still confident that all of them will come back. Congress-JD(S) govt which is there will be safe. None of them is leaving the party.”
Congress Leaders Released, Shivakumar Being 'Forcibly' Sent Back to Bengaluru
Congress’ Milind Deora and other party leaders have been released, the former’s office said on Wednesday evening.
“The police is taking Mr DK Shivakumar to the airport. He is being forcibly sent back to Bengaluru,” it added.
Karnataka Governor Calls MLA Sudhakar to Raj Bhavan
Karnataka Governor called the police commissioner and instructed him to bring MLA Sudhakar to Raj Bhavan, sources told The Quint.
'Amit Shah and Narendra Modi Behind This': Siddaramaiah on Karnataka Crisis
Addressing the media after the resignations of two more Congress MLAs – MTB Nagaraj and K Sudhakar – on Wednesday, party leader Siddaramaiah said, “Sudhakar is not a BJP MLA or BJP worker. Just because he has resigned doesn't mean he is a BJP MLA. As long as his resignation is not accepted, he continues to be the member of Congress party. As a CLP leader I was trying to convince him.”
The former Karnataka CM also slammed the BJP, saying that Amit Shah and Narendra Modi are behind the crisis.
'Explained to Siddaramaiah Why I Had to Take Such a Drastic Decision': K Sudhakar
Speaking to the media, K Sudhakar – one of the Congress MLAs who has resigned, and who was forcibly taken by party leaders in the Assembly on Wednesday – said, “What happened was regretful. The way they (Congress leaders) behaved is not in a civilised manner in a democratic setup. Whatever happened was seen by the people of the state and the nation.”
His statement came after the situation turned ugly in the Karnataka Assembly as Congress leaders forcibly took Sudhakar to minister KJ George’s chamber after he submitted his resignation.
Sudhakar further pointed out that he and Siddaramaiah are close to each other, and the latter did try to convince him to withdraw his resignation.
“I have given him my reasons and I have given resignation for personal reasons. I explained to him why I had to take such a drastic decision,” he said.
Bengaluru Police Enforces Section 144 Around Vidhan Soudha
Bangalore Police has enforced Section 144 extending up to 2 kilometers around Vidhan Soudha from 11 to 14 July.
Its a Matter of Shame: Shivkumar After Denied Entry inside Mumbai Hotel
Karnataka Minister and Congress leader DK Shivakumar said that its a matter of shame that despite making reservations at a hotel in Mumbai, he was denied entry.
Shivkumar said he had made a reservation at Renaissance Hotel, where the rebel Karnataka MLAs were also residing.
"Mumbai is known for its hospitality. I had booked a room there and I was on an official visit to meet my friends and colleagues. The BJP misused their authority, it's a matter of shame," he said.
K'taka Cabinet Meeting to be Held on 11 July
Karnataka Cabinet meeting to be held on Thursday, 11 July at Vidhan Soudha in Bengaluru.
According to ANI, Cabinet meeting will have all the ministers as they have only submitted their resignations to their party presidents, not to the Chief Minister.
'Still in Congress': Rebel Cong MLA After Arriving in Bengaluru
Rebel Congress MLA ST Somashekar arrived in Bengaluru from Mumbai on late Thursday night. He said that he has resigned from his post but is still a member of the Congress party.
"I will stay here, I'm not going back to Mumbai. I have resigned from the post of MLA but I'm still in Congress party," Somashekar said.
Crucial Cabinet Meeting by CM Kumaraswamy Today
A crucial cabinet meeting will be held today by Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy at around 11 am.
Mamata Banerjee Blames BJP for Indulging in Horse Trading
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on Wednesday, 10 July accused the BJP of indulging in horse-trading in Karnataka and claimed that rebel Congress lawmakers of the southern state were locked up in Mumbai.
Claiming that Constitution is in danger, the Trinamool Congress president said, "We condemn this arrogant attitude (of the BJP)."
She alleged that mediapersons were not allowed where the Congress lawmakers are locked up and some agencies were helping the ruling party at the Centre.
TMC MP Gives Adjournment Motion in LS Over Karnataka
Trinamool Congress MP Saugata Ray has given an Adjournment Motion Notice in Lok Sabha over the political situation in Karnataka and Goa.
DK Shivakumar Says Will Take Legal Action Against Mumbai Hotel
Karnataka Minister and Congress leader DK Shivakumar, on Thursday 11 July said that since the hotel people in Mumbai rejected his reservation, he will take a legal remedy to protect his rights.
SC Begins Hearing Karnataka Rebel MLAs Petition
The Supreme Court has taken up the hearing over the political crisis in Karnataka. The demands from the Rebel MLAs, who moved the court are that the SC should direct Speaker Ramesh Kumar to accept their resignation and that the court should ask the Speaker not to threaten them with disqualification.
SC Allows 10 Rebel MLAs to Appear Before Speaker
The Supreme Court, while hearing the Karnataka Political Crisis matter, allowed 10 rebel MLAs to appear before Karnataka Assembly Speaker at 6pm on Thursday, 11 July, to convey their decision to resign, CNN News18 reported. The SC further requested the Speaker to take a decision on resignations today itself. The matter has been adjourned till Friday.
DK Shivakumar Confident About MLAs Staying With Party
Congress leader DK Shivakumar, on Thursday told news agency ANI that he is confident the MLAs will stay with the party.
Opposition Leaders Protest Against BJP Outside Parliament
Leaders from the Congress Party and the Trinamool Congress, including Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi are protesting outside the parliament against the “undemocratic” activities of the BJP, in relation to the ongoing crisis in Karnataka and Goa.
MLAs to Fly Out of Mumbai at 2:30 PM
The dissident Karnataka MLAs on Thursday, 11 July, will fly back to Karnataka at around 2:30 pm in a chartered flight, after the Supreme Court asked them to appear before the Speaker at 6 pm. They are expected to land at around 4 pm.
According to reports, they will hold a press conference in Mumbai at the Renaissance Hotel before leaving for Bangalore.
MLA's to Fly Out of Mumbai at 2:30 PM
The dissident Karnataka MLAs, on Thursday, 11 July will fly back to Karnataka at around 2:30 pm in a chartered flight, after the Supreme Court asked them to appear before the Speaker at 6 pm. They are expected to land at around 4 pm.
According to reports, they will hold a press conference in Mumbai at the Renissance Hotel before leaving for Bangalore.
CM Kumaraswamy Quashes Resignation Rumours
Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Thursday, 11 July rejected the BJP's demand for him to quit as his coalition government has been reduced to 'minority' after 16 legislators of the ruling Congress-JD(S) coalition submitted their resignations to Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar.
"Why should I resign? What is the necessity?" retorted Kumaraswamy in Kannada when asked amid speculation whether he would submit his resignation to state Governor Vajubhai Vala after a cabinet meeting in the afternoon.
Clarifying that he would attend the monsoon session of the state Legislative Assembly commencing on Friday, Kumaraswamy said how could the Bharatiya Janata Party make such a demand when its former Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa did not resign after 18 of his legislators revolted against him in 2008-09.
MLAs Leave Mumbai Hotel, to Meet Speaker at 6 PM
All Karnataka rebel MLAs, who were staying at Mumbai's Renaissance Hotel, have left for Bengaluru, where they are scheduled to meet the governor at 6 pm.
Everyone has to Act As Per Law: Mallikarjun Kharge
Senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, said that as per the order from Supreme Court, the rebel MLAs will have to meet the governor.
Karnataka Speaker Moves SC, Seeks Vacation of SC Order
Karnataka Speaker moves SC seeking vacation of SC order directing him to decide on resignations of ten rebel MLAs forthwith and latest by 12 midnight after they appear before him at 6 pm today. He says such a direction can't be issued by SC. He seeks urgent hearing today at 2 pm.
SC Denies Urgent Hearing for Karnataka Speaker's Plea
Soon after the Karnataka speaker approached the Supreme Court, seeking time for his decision on the MLAs’ resignation, the apex court denied an urgent hearing in the matter.
The SC said that it has already set the date of hearing for Friday, 12 July.
There Was no Need for MLAs to Approach SC: Speaker After Meeting with Cong Leaders
The Karnataka speaker, Ramesh Kumar, after his meeting with former CM and Cong leader Siddaramaiah, said that the Supreme Court has made an observation that 10 MLAs should come to meet him.
Rebel MLAs Reach Mumbai Airport
Rebel Congress MLAs have reached Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. They have been directed by the Supreme Court to meet the Karnataka Assembly Speaker at 6 pm today and submit their resignations if they so wish.
Rebel MLAs Leave For Bengaluru by Special Flight
The rebel Karnataka MLAs, who were camping in Mumbai, have left for Bengaluru via a special flight, reported PTI.
Rebel MLAs Arrive in Bengaluru in a Special Flight
The rebel MLAs, who have resigned from the Karnataka Assembly, arrived in Bengaluru via a special flight from Mumbai.
Karnataka Assembly to Convene on Friday Amid Resignation Spree in Ruling Camp
The resignation spree by MLAs of the ruling Congress and JD(S) will resound in the Karnataka Assembly when it convenes on Friday for a 10-day session amidst the Opposition BJPs demand for a floor test and the ousting of the HD Kumaraswamy-led government.
Mamata Speaks to Kumaraswamy over Karnataka Crisis
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has asked Karnataka's HD Kumaraswamy to hold his ground and not give in to the efforts of the BJP, sources told PTI.
Banerjee, stung by defections herself, with several Trinamool Congress MPs and MLAs joining the BJP, dialled the Karnataka chief minister last evening and spoke to him about the political crisis in the state, sources said.
Rebel MLAs Reach Vidhan Soudha After 6 PM Deadline
It was a race against time for the rebel MLAs, who couldn't reach the Vidhana Soudha by 6 pm, which was the deadline given by the Supreme Court. The MLAs who reached Vidhana Soudha around 10 minutes late were seen running towards the Speaker's chamber.
Karnataka Speaker Addresses Media After Rebel MLAs Submit Resignations
Karnataka Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar addresses the media after rebel MLAs submitted their resignations as per the directions of the Supreme Court.
“I felt hurt when I saw some news that I am delaying the process. Governor informed me on 6th (July). I was in office till then and later I left for personal work. Before that no MLAs informed that they were coming to meet me,” he said.
“On 6 July, I was in my chamber till 1:30 pm. The MLAs came there at 2 pm, they didn't even take prior appointment. So, it's untrue that I ran away because they were coming," he added
“I am in a fix. Talking to seniors in the legal departmentt, going over old judgements to make a decision,” he said.
Cong- JD(S) Alliance is Strong: Kumaraswamy Clears Air on 'Alliance' with BJP
Amid the crisis faced by the coalition ministry in Karnataka, a meeting between a JDS Minister, considered close to Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, and senior BJP leaders at a guest house created a buzz, but the two sides sought to dismiss it as "coincidental".
Kumaraswamy himself dismissed any significance in the meeting, calling it "casual" and saying the Congress-JDS combine in the state was going "strong despite the efforts to destabilise" it.
"We are confident and prepared for a smooth and fruitful conduct of legislative sessions. It is unnecessary to give importance to Tourism Minister Sa Ra Mahesh's casual meeting with BJP leaders at the new building of KK guest house," the chief minister said.
Speaker Should Quickly Take Decision on MLAs' Resignation: Pralhad Joshi
Senior BJP leader and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said the Speaker of the Karnataka Assembly should take a decision on the resignation of the MLAs at the earliest and should not drag the ongoing constitutional crisis in the state.
"Speaker should take the decision early, they (Rebel MLAs) have all met personally and submitted their resignations. This constitutional crisis should end as soon as possible," Joshi told ANI.
14 Rebel Karnataka MLAs Return to Mumbai Hotel
Fourteen rebel MLAs from Karnataka returned to a luxury hotel in Mumbai on Thursday evening after submitting their resignations to the Assembly Speaker in Bengaluru, PTI reported.
According to the report, the MLAs have returned to the Renaissance hotel in suburban Powai and they would be staying there for another two days.
Speaker KR Ramesh to Meet 3 MLAs at 4 pm
Karnataka Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar has given appointment for 4 pm on Friday, 12 July, to three of the five MLAs whose resignations were in the prescribed format, reported ANI.
Congress Issues Whip to MLAs
Ahead of the the Monsoon session, Congress Legislative Party leader Siddaramaiah has issued a whip to all MLAs to attend the session and pass Finance Bill, failing which they will be disqualified under anti-defection law.
Karnataka Youth Leader Cong Moves SC
Karnataka Youth Congress leader moves SC seeking to intervene in case filed by 10 rebel MLAs for acceptance of their resignation.
BJP to Issue Whip to MLAs
BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa said that whip will be issued to party MLAs to attend the session.
“We will give a whip to attend the session from today to the end of this month,” said Yeddyurappa.
MLAs Arrive Vidhana Soudha for Assembly Session
MLAs arrive at Vidhana Soudha as the state assembly session begins today.
SC Begins Hearing Rebel MLAs' Plea
Karnataka Speaker has not decided on the resignations of MLAs, submitted Mukul Rohatgi.
Rohatgi also urged the apex court to issue a notice of contempt against the Karnataka Speaker for defying the court order.
'Speaker Answerable to Court,' Says Rohatgi
Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, rebel MLAs' counsel, submitted to the Supreme Court that the Speaker KR Ramesh is answerable to this court, except under certain circumstances.
Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for the Karnataka Speaker said that he is duty bound to decide on the disqualification first.
'Speaker Not Saying He is Bot Bound by SC,' Says Singhvi
Abhishek Singhvi clarified that the Speaker is not saying he is not bound by orders of the Supreme Court.
He took an exception to other side's characterisation of Speaker, telling the court to 'go to hell', adding the Speaker's argument is more nuanced.
Speaker's Discretion to See Whether MLA Resignations Genuine: Singhvi
Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for Speaker KR Ramesh, points to Article 190(3)(b) which gives Speaker discretion to see whether MLA resignations are genuine and voluntary, to refuse to accept the resignations if he thinks they're not.
Inquiry to be conducted for that, up to Speaker to see what's needed for that, he added.
Kumaraswamy's Lawyer Slams Rebel MLAs' Petition, Calls it 'Overtly Political'
Advocate Rajeev Dhavan, arguing for Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, pointed that the rebel MLAs failed to provide any grounds for this petition, calling it “overtly political.”
He objected to the basis on which the court was asked to make its order by the rebel MLAs, says the facts and issues weren't presented correctly.
SC Orders Status Quo, to Hear Case on Tuesday
The Supreme Court orders status quo with regard to resignation and disqualification of 10 MLAs.
The apex court noted that there are some important constitutional issues that will need to examined in this case.
The matter to be heard at length on Tuesday, 16 July.
Kumaraswamy Seeks Permission to Prove Majority
Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy on friday, 12 July, sought permission to prove majority in the Assembly session.
CM HD Kumaraswamy Seeks Floor Test
Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy seeks trust vote, asks speaker to fix time floor test, NDTV reports.
BJP, Congress Moving Their MLAs to Different Hotels
After the Assembly proceedings on Friday, the Congress is moving its MLAs to Clarks Exotica Convention Resort in Bengaluru, while the BJP is moving its legislators to Ramada Hotel in the state capital.
Will Allot Slot for Trust Vote When CM Seeks It: Karnataka Speaker
In the wake of H D Kumaraswamy deciding to seek a trust vote, Assembly Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar Friday said a slot would be allotted whenever the Karnataka Chief Minister opted for it.
"The chief minister has spoken his mind that he would not cling to power amid the confusion. He said he will seek the trust of the House," the Speaker told reporters.
"Whenever he tells me that he wants to move the trust motion, the very next day I will put it in the business of the day," he added.
Three Rebel MLAs Fail to Appear Before Karnataka Speaker
Three rebel MLAs Narayana Gowda, Anand Singh and Pratap Gouda Patil failed to appear before Speaker Ramesh Kumar. The Speaker had given appointments to these MLAs on Friday afternoon to discuss their resignations.
Speaker to Take a Call on Trust Vote by 15 July
Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has officially submitted a request for a confidence motion to Karnataka Speaker Ramesh Kumar.
The Speaker is expected to take a decision on Monday, 15 July, after consulting the Leader of Opposition.
We Are Confident That's Why We are Moving Trust Vote: Siddaramaiah
Former Karnataka CM and Congress leader Siddaramaiah told reporters in Bengaluru, “We are confident, that is why we are moving vote of confidence motion. The BJP is afraid because they know there are black sheep in their party.”
BJP Uses Money to Bring Down State Govts: Rahul Gandhi Breaks Silence on Karnataka Crisis
Breaking his silence on the Karnataka political crisis, former Congress President Rahul Gandhi, on Friday, 12 July, alleged that the BJP has been using money power to bring down state governments. He added that the BJP had done the same in the North East.
He added, “Congress fights on the basis of truth.”
BJP Karnataka MLAs to Spend Weekend at Resort
BJP in Karnataka on Friday, 12 July, decided to move its MLAs to a resort near here amid fears of poaching bid by the ruling Congress-JDS combine after Chief Minister H D Kumarasway announced he would seek a trust vote in the assembly despite the resignation by rebel legislators.
Every one (BJP MLAs) felt that they should be together and come together to the assembly on Monday... I have said okay, state BJP president B S Yeddyurappa told reporters in response to a question.
The MLAs were likely to stay put at a resort on the outskirts of the city, party sources said.
Why is BJP Herding its MLAs to a Resort Now?: JD(S)
JD(S) hit out at the BJP over lodging their MLAs to a resort. In a tweet on their official handle, the party said, “Why is BJP herding its MLAs to a resort now?
We will not stoop to your level and poach MLAs.”
Accept Resignations of MLAs at Once: Bihar Speaker Urges K'taka Counterpart
Bihar Assembly Speaker Vijay Kumar Chaudhary on Friday voiced disapproval over the "delay" on part of his Karnataka counterpart K R Ramesh Kumar in taking a decision on the resignations of MLAs of the ruling Congress-JD(S) coalition in the southern state.
"The matter has been unnecessarily allowed to snowball… the Speaker (of Karnataka) indeed had no option when the members had met him personally and tendered their resignations," Chaudhary said in the release issued by the Vidhan Sabha secretariat in Bihar.
Shivakumar Meets MTB Nagaraj Who Quit From Cabinet Post
Karnataka Minister and Congress leader DK Shivakumar visited the residence of State Minister, MTB Nagaraj who recently resigned from his post.
Shivakumar visited the leader to convince him to reconsider his decision, ANI reported.
MLAs May Travel to Shirdi for Darshan
Karnataka Congress and JD(S) MLAs staying in Renaissance Hotel in Powai may be traveling to Shirdi on Saturday, 13 July, by a chartered plane to take darshan from Sri Saibaba.
On Friday, two batches of four MLAs each visited Sri Siddhivinayak temple at Prabhadevi to take darshan of Lord Ganesha.
Deputy CM & State Minister Byregowda Attempting to Pacify Rebel MLA MTB Nagaraj
Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara and Minister Krishna Byregowda reach rebel MLA MTB Nagaraj's house to pacify him.
Rebel MLAs leave for Shirdi from Mumbai
Rebel Congress-JDS Karnataka MLAs left for Shirdi from Mumbai airport, reported ANI
'After all I Have Spent Decades in Congress': Rebel MLA MTB Nagaraj After Meeting DKS
Rebel MLA MTB Nagaraj who had tendered his resignation to the speaker last Thursday told ANI: “Situation was such that we submitted our resignations but now DK Shivakumar and others came and requested us to withdraw resignations. I will speak to K Sudhakar Rao and then see what is to be done. After all I have spent decades in Congress”.
He added that even Siddaramaiah had called him and requested him to withdraw his resignation.
'There are Ups and Downs in Every Family': DK Shivakumar After Meeting Rebels
“We should live together and die together because we have worked for 40 years for the party, there are ups and downs in every family. We should forget everything and move forward. Happy that MTB Nagaraj has assured us he will stay with us,” Shivakumar told ANI
Rebel Congress MLA Nagaraj Arrives to Meet Siddaramaiah
Rebel Cong MLA MTB Nagaraj arrives to meet Siddaramaiah at the latter's residence. Nagaraj had earlier met Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara and DK Shivakumar who had come down to his residence to meet him.
Independent MLAs Write to Speaker Requesting Seating in Oppn Benches
Independent MLAs R Shankar and H Nagesh, who withdrew their support from the Congress-JD(S) government on 8 July have written a letter to the Speaker asking him to arrange their seating in the Opposition benches in the Assembly.
Five Rebel Congress MLAs Move SC Over Speaker not Accepting Resignations
Five more rebel Karnataka Congress MLAs have moved Supreme Court against Assembly speaker Ramesh Kumar not accepting their resignations, reported ANI. These include Roshan Baig, Nagaraj, Sudhakar, Munirathna and Anand Singh.
Congress Workers Protest at Shirdi Highway
Congress workers reportedly protested at Shirdi highway as the rebel MLAs vehicle reached Shirdi. Heavy security arrangements have been made for the darshan.
Yeddyurappa Holds Lunch Meeting With Party MLAs
BJP MLAs staying at Ramada hotel in Bengaluru, held a lunch meeting with party state president BS Yeddyurappa
Rebel MLAs Visit Sai Baba temple in Shirdi
Rebel Congress-JDS Karnataka MLAs including Ramesh Jarkiholi visited Sai Baba temple in Shirdi "The MLAs left for Shirdi in a private plane. They will return later in the day," sources said. The legislators have been camping in Mumbai since last Saturday after resigning and withdrawing support to the 13- month-old JD(S)-Congress government
'Don't Think Rebels Will Withdraw Resignations': BS Yeddyurappa
BS Yeddyurappa on Saturday told mediapersons that he was sure that the 5 rebel MLAs who had moved SC today would not be withdrawing their resignations, despite meetings with top Congress leaders.
"I assure you that they themselves have moved SC. I don’t need to tell you such people wont withdraw. I think their decision is final. The CM openly said in the Assembly that he won’t continue unless he had the confidence of his MLAs. Let us wait till Monday to see what happens. We will advise in the Business Affairs Committee meeting that the CM's commitment must be maintained," he said.
He also said that it was better that CM Kumaraswamy resign and that people in the state were fed up.
'Confident MLAs Will Reconsider Quitting': Deputy CM
Deputy CM G Parameshwara, who along with DK Shivakumar went to meet rebel MLA MTB Nagaraj on Saturday, expressed his confidence that “differences and discontentment” within the family would be “sorted out within the family itself.”
Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath To Visit Bengaluru
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath will fly to Bengaluru amid the political crisis in the state, reported ANI.
CM Kumaraswamy, MLA Nagaraj Arrive at Siddaramaiah's Residence
Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, rebel Congress MLA MTB Nagaraj and Congress leader Zameer Ahmed Khan arrive at the residence of Congress Legislature Party leader Siddaramaiah's residence in Bengaluru.
Have Decided to Stay in Congress: Rebel MLA MTB Nagaraj
Rebel MLA MTB Nagaraj who had given his resignation said that he has decided to stay with the Congress.
“We will try to convince Sudhakar and both of us will take our resignations back,” he said, according to ANI.
'Will Get Most of the MLAs at Vote of Confidence': Siddaramaiah
Karnataka Congress Legislature Party leader Siddharamaiah on Saturday, said that they would get most of the MLAs when the vote of confidence is moved.
'Have Confidence in Our MLAs': Shivakumar
Congress leader and Karnataka minister DK Shivakumar said that he has confidence in the party MLAs.
“I have confidence on all our MLAs. They have been elected from Congress party and they have been there for a long period. They have fought like tigers in their domain,” he said.
“At the time of Confidence Motion, they're also well-equipped with law. Law is very clear. If they vote against Confidence Motion, they'll lose their membership. Congress party is ready to settle their demands. We're getting signals that they'll save our government,” he added.
MTB Nagaraj Takes Chartered Flight to Mumbai
Rebel Congress MLA MTB Nagaraj, who had announced that he will stay with the Congress, was seen taking a chartered flight to Mumbai on Sunday, 14 July.
Senior BJP leader R Ashok and BS Yeddyurappa's aide Santosh were also seen at HAL airport.
Congress Calls for Legislature Party Meet on 15 July
The Congress has called for a Legislature Party meeting on Monday, 15 July, reports ANI.
Yeddyurappa Says he Will Request CM Kumaraswamy 'To Resign Immediately'
BJP state president BS Yeddyurappa on Sunday, 14 July, said that he will request Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy to resign immediately.
"I will request CM HD Kumaraswamy to resign immediately because more than 15 MLAs from JDS and Congress, and also two independent Ministers have resigned, reflecting their support for the BJP," Yeddyurappa told ANI.
Speaker Doesn't Have Right to Disqualify Anyone: BS Yeddyurappa
Earlier, DK Shivakumar has said that if rebel MLAs vote against the government, they will be disqualified. On being asked to comment on this, BS Yeddyurappa said, “The Speaker doesn't have the right to disqualify anybody because of the Supreme Court's decision,” reports ANI.
Efforts by Coalition Leaders to Mollify Rebel MLA Nagaraj Fail
Efforts by coalition leaders to mollify rebel Congress MLA M T B Nagaraj has failed as he flew to Mumbai on Sunday, where he made it clear that there was no question of withdrawing his resignation. Leaders of the Congress-JD(S) coalition held negotiations with Nagaraj on Saturday in a bid to woo him back to save the 13-month old H D Kumaraswamy-led government that is on the brink of collapse.
However, the Hoskote MLA, speaking to reporters ahead of leaving the city, had maintained that he intended to take a final decision on the withdrawal of his resignation after talks with Chikkaballapura MLA K Sudhakar. Nagaraj and Sudhakar had submitted their resignations together to Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar on July 10.
(PTI)
Cong Steps up Efforts to Persuade MLA to Withdraw Resignation from Assembly
The Congress on Sunday intensified efforts to persuade another rebel MLA Ramalinga Reddy to withdraw his resignation from the Karnataka assembly, in a desperate bid to save the Congress-JD(S) government that is teetering in the wake of resignation of its legislators. Congress state working president Eshwar Khandre and senior leader H K Patil had a meeting with BTM Layout MLA Ramalinga Reddy at his residence for about two hours.
The meeting with Reddy came on a day rebel Congress MLA M T B Nagaraj headed to Mumbai after talks on Saturday to mollify him appeared to have failed. However, a state Congress leader expressed confidence that he has gone to bring back another disgruntled lawmaker.
(PTI)
Siddaramaiah Meets Rebel MLA Ramalinga Reddy
Karnataka Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Siddaramaiah meets rebel MLA Ramalinga Reddy, reports ANI.