Yediyurappa Takes Oath as New CM, To Prove Majority on 29 July
Catch all the live updates on the Karnataka political crisis here.
Hours after he took oath as the new CM of Karnataka, Senior BJP leader BS Yediyurappa on Friday, 26 July, said that his government will face the floor test and prove its majority at 10 am on 29 July.
CM HD Kumaraswamy submitted his resignation to Governor Vajubhai Vala on Tuesday.
BS Yediyurappa is the 23rd Chief Minister of Karnataka. This will be his fourth term as the chief minister. He first became chief minister in 2007 for just seven days. He again served as the CM for three years from 2008-2011. He then became the CM for three days in 2018 and lost the trust vote.
- “Who all are to be inducted (in the Ministry), I will discuss with our national president and inform,” Yeddyurappa said on Friday
- Karnataka Speaker KR Ramesh disqualified MLAs R Shankar, Ramesh Jarkiholi and Mahesh Kumtahalli on Thursday, 25 July
- Ramesh said that he will take a decision about other complaints “in a couple of days”
- The coalition got just 99 votes against the BJP’s 105 in the floor test
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Rebel MLAs Refuse to Compromise on Their Stand
The rebel MLAs on Sunday, 21 July, bluntly refused to compromise on their stand even as Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy made an appeal to them to attend the House in an effort to save his 14-month old ministry.
On Sunday, Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy had appealed the rebel MLAs to return and “expose” the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during the debate in the House, but they ruled out attending the session. BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa, meanwhile, exuded confidence that "tomorrow (Monday) will be the last day of the Kumaraswamy government" and said the CM was just trying to buy time.
We thought this government will do good to the state but it did not happen. There is no question of our attending the Assembly session tomorrow, rebel JD(S) MLA K Gopalaiah said in a video, flanked by ten other legislators.
AH Vishwanath, who resigned as the JD(S) state president following the Lok Sabha election debacle, said "the demonic politics in the name of coalition has done no good to the people and compelled the MLAs to resign."
BJP Leaders Arrive in Vidhana Soudha
Former Karnataka CM and BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa, along with BJP MLAs arrive at Vidhana Soudha.
SC Declines to Hear Independent MLAs' Plea Seeking Trust Vote Today
The Supreme Court declines to hear Independent MLAs ' plea for conducting floor test in Karnataka Assembly today. Apex court may consider it for hearing on Tuesday, 23 July.
After the voting on confidence motion did not take place despite two deadlines on 19 July set by Governor Vajubhai Vala, two Independent MLAs, who withdrew support to the Congress-JD(S) government, are going to move the Supreme Court seeking a direction for conducting a floor test forthwith in the Assembly.
Trust Vote Issue Must Conclude Today, Says Speaker KR Ramesh
Karnataka Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar on Monday, 22 July, said that the trust vote must conclude today.
“It is a gentlemanly agreement on the floor of the house, that by all we must conclude this issue today. The other MLAs’ letters were not in order. I have asked them to meet me,” said the Speaker.
Speaker Summons Rebel MLAs at 11 am Tomorrow
Karnataka Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar summons rebel MLAs to meet him at his office at 11 am on 23 July, reported ANI.
The notice has been issued over petition to disqualify rebel MLAs by coalition leaders.
SC Refuses to Entertain Plea on Horse Trading in Karnataka
The Supreme Court has refused to entertain the plea mentioned by advocate, Lily Thomas, on horse trading and defection of politicians citing a newspaper report.
Will Pass Ruling Today, Says Speaker Ramesh Kumar
Karnataka Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar said that he will have to pass a ruling today as he was delayed due to the checking of Supreme Court, reported ANI.
He also added responsibility given to Siddaramaiah, as the party whip, under Schedule 10 will not be infringed upon.
Siddaramaiah Can Issue Whip But Not Mandatory for MLAs to Attend: Speaker
On whether the Supreme Court order on rebel MLAs infringes the right of Siddaramaiah, as a party whip, Speaker KR Ramesh said that he can issue a whip, but it is not mandatory for them to attend the session.
Fix a Time for Floor Test Today: BJP Tells Speaker
BJP leader Madhuswamy asked the Speaker to finish the floor test by afternoon and fix a time for that now.
Cong Reads Out Conversation Between Rebel MLA, BJP Leader
Congress leader and Karnataka Minister Krishna Byre Gowda is now reading of a transcript of a conversation allegedly between rebel MLA BC Patil and a BJP leader, where Patil could be heard negotiating money. He claimed that Patil was aspiring for a ministerial berth but was not given.
Telephonic conversation:
BC Patil: You quote the price. I have 15 more with me. We will give them also ministerial berth.
Anonymous: There won't be elections. We will prove our majority. You've seen how it was in AP. We have power in the centre and the state. Hence there won't be by-polls.
Another person from the Centre is added to the call.
Anonymous: There is no question of you going to polls. You do not worry. It will be speaker's hand. It will the same result as AP.
BJP’s Jagadish Shettar raises objection to the reading out of conversation. However, Speaker says that the party members will make allegations until the MLAs are present in the Assembly.
Rebel MLAs to Join BJP, Alleges Congress Leaders
In an attempt to expose the BJP's involvement, Congress leader Krishna Byre Gowda said that the rebel MLAs have indicated that they will join the BJP.
Gowda, reading out a transcript of a news report, said:
A: Will you join BJP?
B: Yes, I will join. They have promised me a ministerial berth.
A: What is your next move?
B: I will quit Congress and join BJP.
As the BJP leaders objected to Gowda’s arguement, Congress leader Eshwar Khandre said:
Was Not Eating Non-Veg, Was Eating Dates: Kumaraswamy on Photo With IMA Accused
BJP brings up Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy being photographed with IMA ponzi scam accused Mansoor Khan.
Kumaraswamy said that he had spoken to the I-T department and the DGP about the lapse in enquiry. He said tha
Why Is BJP Not Accepting They Are Behind 'Operation Lotus': DK Shivakumar
Congress leader DK Shivakumar asked why the BJP was not accepting that they are behind ‘Operation Lotus.’
Resign and Go Home, BJP Tells Kumaraswamy
The BJP Monday asked Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy "to resign and go" if he has faith in the Constitution and people of the state, as the confidence motion moved by him in the Assembly dragged on for the third day.
The BJP said Kumaraswamy himself moved the confidence motion but the trust process was still prolonging.
In its Facebook page, the BJP said, "If at all you have faith and respect for the Constitution and the people of the state, you resign and go home."
The BJP ran a hashtag in Kannada, "people of the state will not forgive you."
Karnataka Assembly Adjourned Till 3:30 PM
Session in the Karnataka Assembly has been adjourned till 3:30 pm.
Welcome Speaker's Ruling on Point of Order: Siddaramaiah
Karnataka Assembly Session Resumes
The Karnataka assembly session has resumed after lunch break.
Will Induct Rebel MLAs into Our Party: BJP Legislator CT Ravi
"I will call them on this public platform. They (rebel MLAs) can come to the BJP and we will induct them into our party and give them ministry," legislator CT Ravi said.
'Each Member Will Speak Only for 10 Minutes': Speaker
Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar has allowed members at Vidhana Soudha to speak for a duration of 10 minutes.
“Each member will speak only for 10 minutes. Don’t make me say this again and again,” Kumar reportedly said.
'Congress-JD(S) Is Violating Constitutional Rights': P Muralidhar Rao
BJP National General Secretary P Muralidhar Rao on Monday, 22 July, said that the Congress-JD(S) combine is violating constitutional rights. "Democracy is being murdered. The court has allowed the 15 (rebel) MLAs to take a call on whether or not they want to be present there. They (Karnataka government) don't have the numbers... they are in minority," news agency ANI quoted Rao as saying.
GT Devegowda Denies Reports on HDK Resigning, Meeting Governor
JDS leader GT Devegowda has denied reports suggesting that Karnataka Chief minister HD Kumaraswamy will meet the governor later in the day.
A section of the media had reported that Kumaraswamy would tender his resignation after meeting the governor at around 7 pm today.
MB Patil to Meet With Commissioner of Police to Discuss ‘Zero Traffic’ Issue
Karnataka Home Minister MB Patil has called an official meeting with the Commissioner of Police to discuss ‘zero traffic’, that was reportedly provided to the rebel MLAs when they were returning to Bengaluru to meet the Speaker.
JD(S) MLA AT Ramaswamy had raised this matter in the Assembly today.
Congress, JD(S) MLAs Demand More Time to Debate Trust Vote
The Congress and JD(S) MLAs are protesting in the well of the House, demanding more time to debate the trust vote. The session has been adjourned for 10 minutes amid the uproar.
SC to Hear Tomorrow Plea of 2 Independent MLAs for Immediate Floor Test
The Supreme Court will hear on Tuesday, 23 July, a fresh plea of two Independent Karnataka MLAs seeking holding of the floor test "forthwith" in the state Assembly on the trust motion moved by Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy.
A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi on Monday declined to hear during the day the plea by R Shankar and H Nagesh.
"On mentioning, the matter is taken on board. List the matter tomorrow before the appropriate bench as per the roster," the bench, also comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Aniruddha Bose, said in its order.
Speaker Holds Meeting With BJP and JD(S) Leaders
Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar is holding a meeting with BJP leaders Sunil Kumar, Basavaraj Bommai, CT Ravi and JD(S) leaders Sa Ra Mahesh, HD Revanna, Bandeppa Kashempur, in his chamber at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru.
Speaker Holds Meeting With CM Kumaraswamy, Others
Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar is holding a meeting with Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara, JD(S) leader Sa Ra Mahesh, and Congress leaders Krishna Byre Gowda & Siddaramaiah, in his chamber at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru.
Karnataka Assembly Session Resumes
The Karnataka assembly session has resumed after it was adjourned briefly as Congress and JD(S) members demanded more time to discuss the confidence motion moved by Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy.
'We Will Be in the House till 12 Am': Yeddyurappa on Trust Vote
Former Karnataka CM and BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa says the Chief Minister had promised that he will finish the trust vote and prove the majority today. "Now I have spoken to the chief Whip regarding the same. We will be in the House till 12 am,” Yeddyurappa said.
Congress, JD(S) MLAs Demand Postponement of Floor Test
The Congress and JD(S) MLAs are reportedly shouting slogans like "We need justice. Save the Constitution", to mark their protest. The MLAs have demanded that the floor test be postponed till the Supreme Court delivers its verdict in the case.
Yeddyurappa Seeks Speaker's Permission to Go Ahead with Trust Vote
“None of our leaders protested when they were speaking. Siddaramaiah, the CM and yourself (Speaker) promised that floor test will take place on Monday. When our chief Whip was called, we stated that we will be here till late in the night till all the debates conclude. Please allow us to go ahead with the confidence motion,” BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa said.
HD Kumaraswamy's 'Resignation Letter' Fake: CM's Office
The CM’s office on Monday said that “HD Kumaraswamy’s resignation letter”, which has been doing rounds on social media, is fake.
'We Are Not Dragging it, BJP Is': JD(S) Leader HD Revanna on Trust Vote
"The CM had moved the trust vote motion. We are not dragging it but it's the BJP. We didn't go to the Supreme Court, but the rebel MLAs did. They said we cannot compel the MLAs to come for the session and Siddaramaiah has spoken about our issues. Now Independent MLAs have also approached the SC," JD(S) Leader HD Revanna said, ahead of the trust vote.
'We Have to Work Together', Speaker Tells the House
Amid the pandemonium in the House over the trust vote, Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar said that the, "SC has given me the responsibility of accepting/rejecting the resignations. We are not at odds, we have to work together."
Speaker Warns MLAs of 'Disastrous Consequences'
The House needs a clarification on the "zero traffic" issue, Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar said on Monday as he warned the MLAs of “disastrous consequences”. "Don't push me to a point where I will have to take a decision without asking you. The consequences will be disastrous," Kumar said.
"Zero traffic had not been given. I want to make this emphatically clear. I have seen all the reports submitted by the officers. The MLAs were made to stop at four signals on their way. No officer gave the order of zero traffic,” the Speaker further said.
'Bring the House to Order', BJP's Madhuswamy Tells Speaker
BJP leader Madhuswamy on Monday, 22 July, told Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to “bring the House to order and take up voting”.
'Don't Have Any Issue With Trust Vote': CM Kumaraswamy
Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Monday, 22 July, said that he didn't have a problem with the trust vote, and that more people needed time to speak in the House.
"A fake resignation letter in my name is being circulated on social media, electronic media, everywhere. This is the atmosphere in the state. I have no problem with the trust vote, but there are people, including CLP leader Siddaramaiah, who still haven't spoken. We request for more time to complete the discussions," the CM said.
Cong Leader DK Shivakumar Warns Rebel MLAs of Disqualification
Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Monday, 22 July, issued warning to rebel MLAs to “attend Assembly session and vote tomorrow”, or else “be liable to be expelled from the Assembly as per the anti-defection law.”
DK Shivakumar Requests Speaker to Adjourn the House
Senior Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Monday, 22 July, requested the Karnataka Speaker to adjourn the House. "Please adjourn the house. We all have to leave," he reportedly said.
MB Patil Urges Speaker to Adjourn the House, BSY Insists Proceedings to Continue
Stating that there were several party leaders who still needed time to speak, MB Patil on Monday, 22 July, urged the Speaker to adjourn the House.
"There are many speakers and we will not be done by 12 am. Adjourn the house and we will come back tomorrow at 11 am. The Supreme Court order will be out by afternoon. Then we can take a call," Patil said.
BS Yeddyurappa, however said that there is still one hour left. So he insisted please go ahead and let them speak.
Session Adjourned for the Day, Trust Vote Likely on 6PM Tuesday
After a plea from Congress leader Siddaramaiah that the ruling alliance will go for trust vote as soon as the debate is over on Tuesday, 23 July, the Assembly session was adjourned by Speaker Ramesh Kumar till Tuesday 10 am, despite disagreement from the BJP camp.
BJPs Madhuswamy, on Siddaramaiah’s plea, said that the debate will have to finish on Monday itself, not agreeing with the Speaker’s initial pitch of having a trust vote by 4 pm, Tuesday 23 July.
Siddaramiah then asked for the debate to be finished by 4 pm on Tuesday, 23 July so that the trust vote can take place by 6 pm, the request that was agreed by the speaker, who then adjourned the house, despite the BJP not agreeing to this ruling.
Rebel MLAs Seek Four Weeks Time to Appear Before Speaker
The rebel MLAs on Tuesday, 23 July, sought four weeks time to appear before Karnataka Speaker KR Ramesh. They were summoned before him at 11 am today.
Reacting to it, the Speaker said:
Supreme Court Adjourns Independents’ Petition to Wednesday
The Supreme Court adjourns hearing on the petition filed by two independent MLAs, seeking interim order directing floor test by 6 pm, to Wednesday.
The SC tells the petitioners it will hear the matter tomorrow (Wednesday) in case the floor test does not happen today.
Assembly Session Resumes, Most Congress-JD(S) MLAs Absent
I Spoke to One of the Rebel MLAs: DK Shivakumar
Congress leader DK Shivakumar said he is not ready to call rebel MLAs disgruntled or unsatisfied, adding that they are more than satisfied.
BJP MLAs stopped Shivakumar’s speech, saying he was trying to divert the attention of the House. Congress leader Siddaramaiah, meanwhile, spoke out in Shivakumar’s support. “DK Shivakumar is trying to instil some sense in the MLAs by reminding them that BJP has mislead them,” he said.
Yeddyurappa and Siddaramaiah Argue Over Defections
Yeddyurappa: In the Supreme Court the government’s council has assured the court that the vote will happen today. When the SC says the MLAs can’t be compelled, you cannot go against it. Besides, the rebels have resubmitted their resignations.
Siddaramaiah: Anti-defection law says that they can be disqualified for their conduct as well, if they indulge in anti-party activities. It says if they vote against the party, they can be disqualified. The SC hasn’t told me to not issue the whip. I have every right under 10th schedule and that’s why my point of order was upheld.
Rebel MLAs' Lawyers, Cong Delegation Meets Speaker
The rebel MLAs sent their lawyers stating a need for 4 more weeks before appearing before the speaker. A delegation from the Congress party also met the speaker and said immediate action needs to be taken and four weeks is too long a time.
The Congress argued that this was a situation where the anti-defection law applies. KPCC president Dinesh Gundu Rao said that an advocate had argued their case before the Speaker in the disqualification petition and added that those MLAs who had 'betrayed'the party would stand to get disqualified. "It is a fit case for the anti - defection law to apply," he said.
Youth Congress Stages Protest Outside Mumbai Hotel
Youth Congress workers reportedly staged a protest outside Renaissance Hotel in Mumbai where rebel MLAs are still staying, demanding that the MLAs return to Bengaluru.
BJP, Congress Workers Face off Over Independent MLAs in Bengaluru
Congress workers on Tuesday, 23 July reached the Race Course Road apartment in central Bengaluru where the two independent MLAs have been staying. While security arrangements were in place for the safety of the MLAs, a fight broke out between BJP and Congress workers outside the property.
The two Independent MLAs, H Nagesh and R Shankar, are expected to vote in the case of a trust vote.
"Apologize to the People of the State": CM Kumaraswamy
Speaking on the floor of the House, Cm Kumaraswamy said,” The confidence motion I moved has been discussed for 4 days. This is a first in Karnataka's history, because no Opposition leader participated in these discussions. You (speaker) have said you were hurt by the developments. I apologise to you and the people on behalf of the MLAs. I won't talk about the developments over the past 10 days. Krishna Byregowda has already spoken at length about the legal, constitutional position.”
"Done Many Things but Tried to Rectify the Wrongs": CM Kumaraswamy
Section 144 Imposed in Bengaluru for 48 Hours Starting at 6 PM
Section 144 has been imposed in the state capital for a period of 48 hours from 6 pm on Tuesday, 23 July, Bengaluru police commissioner Alok Kumar said.
All bars and wine shops to remain closed and anyone found in violation will be punished, he added.
CM Takes on Social Media
Lamenting the negative effects of social media, CM Kumaraswamy said,"On social media people say that I'm staying in Taj West End and looting the people. What will I loot there? I was preparing for this. I was trying hard to try and save this government because many newcomers in this house pleaded with me to save this government. What a tragedy! Is there any humanity in those who are on social media? Where have we reached?”
Karnataka Govt Misses 6pm Deadline for Trust Vote
Karnataka government misses the 6pm deadline for the trust vote it had set before the Assembly adjourned on Monday.
Watch: Trust Vote Begins in Karnataka Vidhana Soudha
After days of uncertainty, the trust vote commenced in the Karnataka Vidhana Soudha on Tuesday, 23 July.
Coalition Casts 99 Votes in Favour of the Government
The Congress- JD(S) coalition votes 99 votes in favour of the government.
Karnataka Govt Falls, Cong-JD(S) Loses Trust Vote in Vidhan Soudha
After weeks of uncertainty, the Congress-JD(S) led government in Karnataka lost the trust vote in the Vidhana Soudha on Tuesday, 23 July after getting 99 votes against the BJP’s 105.
BJP MLAs Show Victory Sign in Vidhana Soudha
BS Yeddyurappa and other Karnataka BJP MLAs show victory sign in the Assembly, after HD Kumaraswamy led Congress-JD(S) coalition government loses trust vote.
'Game Of Karma', Tweets Karnataka BJP
After HD Kumaraswamy led Congress-JD(S) coalition government loses trust vote in Karnataka, the tate BJP took to Twitter to call it a “game of Karma”.
'It's Good for the State': Madhuswamy
BJP leader Madhuswamy said that the loss of the coalition government in the trust vote was good for the state.
“For 14 months, the people were upset that we were not in power. We saw this in BJP's victory in the Lok Sabha polls. No matter what happens, this is good for the state. Would like to thank 105 MLAs for their support, without any complaints at any time. They have been patient and we have won the appreciation of the people. We will keep their faith alive once we officially take oath,” he said.
'Defeat Because of Betrayal of Party MLAs': Congress' HK Patil
Congress leader HK Patil said that the coalition lost the trust vote because of the betrayal of the MLAs.
“Congress-JD(S) failed trust vote. This defeat is because of betrayal of our party legislatures, we have come under the influence of various things. I and people of Karnataka will not tolerate this type of betrayal to the Party,” he said.
'Victory of Democracy': Yeddyurappa
BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa said that the loss of the coalition government in the trust vote is a victory of democracy.
“Its the victory of democracy. People were fed up with the HD Kumaraswamy government. I want to assure people of Karnataka, that a new era of development will start now onwards. Farmers suffering due to drought and other factors, we assure the farmers, we will give them more importance to live happily and take appropriate decisions as early as possible,” he said.
Kumaraswamy Seeks Governor's Appointment
HD Kumaraswamy seeks appointment of Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala after losing the floor test in the state assembly.
'We Will Form a Stable Government': BJP's Jagadish Shettar
BJP’s Jagadish Shettar said that the BJP will form a stable government in the state.
“Their (rebel MLAs) resignations have not yet been accepted by Speaker, after acceptance of resignations they have to decide whether to join BJP or not. In present scenario we have 105 MLAs, it is a majority for BJP, we will form a stable government,” he said.
'Most Heinous Political Horse Trading': KC Venugopal
The subversion of coalition government in Karnataka carried out by the BJP is one of the most heinous political horse tradings the country has ever witnessed, AICC General Secretary In-charge of Karnataka, KC Venugopal said in his statement.
“The coalition government was subverted by the nefarious joint efforts of the Central Government, Governor, State Government of Maharashtra and BJP leadership. BJP facilitated this dirty-dealing political drama by offering a huge amount of black money and ministerial berths to the defected MLAs,” he said in a statement.
“Congress party will hold nation wide protests against the immoral, blatant and brazen political destabilization carried out by the Bharatiya Janata Party,” he added.
'MLAs Who Bastained Will Be Disqualified': Siddaramaiah
Congress leader and former Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah said that 15-16 MLAs will be disqualified for abstaining from the House during the trust vote.
“Fifteen to sixteen of our MLAs violated the whip by abstaining from the House during trust vote, thereby, it is a clear violation of Schedule 10 (of the Constitution) and attracts disqualification,” he said.
'Yeddyurappa Will Be New CM': Karnataka MLA
Karnataka BJP MLA R Ashok said that BS Yeddyurappa will be the next chief minister of the state.
“Today we have won the vote of confidence. For the last year, this government has failed the people. This is the victory of the people of Karnataka who supported our MLAs. I thank them all. Today we will meet and decide. 100% Yeddyurappa will become CM,” he said.
Mayawati Expels Lone BSP MLA in Karnataka
BSP supremo Mayawati expels lone party MLA N Mahesh for not being present in the Assembly during trust vote.
HD Kumaraswamy Submits Resignation to Governor
After the Congress-JD(S) led government in Karnataka lost the trust vote in the Vidhana Soudha on Tuesday chief minister HD Kumaraswamy submitted his resignation to governor Vajubhai Vala. The resignation was accepted by Vala.
'Black Day for Democracy': Mehbooba Mufti
PDP leader and former J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti called the fall of the government in Karnataka a ‘black day for democracy’.
'Good News for People of Karnataka': GVL Narsimha Rao
BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said the BJP will soon decide whatever is in the interest of Karnataka amid the likelihood of the saffron party staking claim to form the new government in the state.
“The Karnataka government which lost the trust vote was an illegitimate government which came to power through the back door and has continued in office for weeks even after losing the legislative majority. The exit of corrupt, illegitimate coalition government is good news for the people of Karnataka,” Rao, also a Rajya Sabha member, said in a statement.
Protests Outside Mumbai Hotel Where Rebel MLAs Are Staying
Activists of Mumbai Youth Congress on Tuesday protested outside the five-star hotel in suburban Mumbai where rebel MLAs of Congress and JD (S) from Karnataka have been holed up after resigning from the Assembly.
Police detained the workers who tried to go inside the hotel this evening to "meet" the legislators.
The MLAs have been staying at the hotel in Powai since early this month.
Mumbai Youth Congress vice president Suraj Singh Thakur said the hotel was a public place and the workers wanted to meet the Karnataka legislators.
“We are initially allowed to go inside the hotel. But as soon as we entered the hotel we were taken away by the police. The security at the hotel is more than the Arthur Road or Tihar Jail. Whose money is being used for their (MLAs') accommodation and food in a five-star luxury hotel?” he asked.
'Will Meet Governor After Meeting Amit Shah, Modi': Yeddyurappa
BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa said that he will meet Governor Vajubhai Vala after meeting AMit Shah and PM Modi.
“I will discuss with Prime Minister and our President Amit Shah ji, afterwards I will go and meet Governor. We are going to have a legislature party meet now,” he said.
'All Who Fell for Operation Kamala Will Never Be Accepted Back': Siddaramaiah
Congress leader and former Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah took to Twitter and said that all the MLAs who have fallen for ‘Operation Kamala’ will never be inducted back in the party.
'Thank the People of the State': Kumaraswamy
Former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy took to Twitter to thank the people of the state after resigning from the post.
Kumaraswamy, Parameshwara Meet Karnataka Speaker
HD Kumaraswamy and G Parameshwara met Karnataka Speaker, KR Ramesh Kumar after the trust vote.
Karnataka BJP MLA Renukacharya Dances After Trust Vote
Karnataka BJP MLA Renukacharya dances with supporters outside the Ramada Hotel in Bengaluru after the Congress-JD(S) government lost trust vote in the assembly.
Cong-JD(S) Targeted from First Day: Rahul Gandhi on Trust Vote
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, responding to his party’s government falling after losing the trust vote, said that the Congress-JD(S) alliance was targeted for since the first day for vested interests from people who saw the alliance as a threat and obstacle.
BJP Legislature Party Meet Concludes, Another on Wednesday Morning
A Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Legislature Party meeting was held at the Ramada hotel in Bengaluru. Another meeting is scheduled to be held on Wednesday, 24 July at the party’s office in Bengaluru at 11 am.
BJP Will Discover Everything Can't be Bought: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra
Congress General Secretary for Uttar Pradesh East Priyanka Gandhi Vadra blamed the BJP for using money to topple the Karnataka government. She said that one day the ruling party will understand that not everything can be bought or everyone can’t be bullied. “Every lie is eventually exposed,” she said in a tweet.
Yeddyurappa's Letter to Amit Shah
'Don't Regret Coalition with JD(S); Ready for Any New Role': DK Shivakumar
'Don't Know why I was Expelled; No Official Communication': Expelled BSP MLA
One day after BSP chief Mayawati took to Twitter to announce the expulsion of the lone MLA in Karnataka for not participating in the trust vote proceedings, N Mahesh said he was unaware of why he had been expelled.
“I don't know why I'm expelled from the party. I hadn't seen the tweet, there was no official communication. I was told earlier to abstain from voting,” he said.
Independent MLAs Seek to Withdraw Their Petition From SC
After the floor test was conducted in the Assembly on Tuesday, the two independent MLAs sought to withdraw their petition regarding the same from Supreme Court but SC deferred its order. It sought the presence of Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, AM Singhvi before it passes final order, reported ANI.
‘Missing MLAs’ Gift Yeddyurappa CM’s Chair, But What’s Next?
After the Congress-JD(S) government lost the trust vote in Karnataka on Tuesday, 23 July, BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa is preparing take oath as chief minister for the second time in the 15th Karnataka Assembly. He had served as the chief minister of Karnataka for six days before HD Kumaraswamy, after the electorate of the state gave a fractured mandate.
Soon after the trust vote, Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy submitted his resignation and the governor’s acceptance dissolved the government. With the Congress-JD(S) losing power, several questions remain about what will happen to these MLAs.
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Karnataka BJP to Elect Yeddyurappa as Legislative Leader
The BJP in Karnataka will elect its state President BS Yeddyurappa as its legislative party leader and stake claim to form government, party spokesman G Madhusudan told IANS. The party's state unit will also reportedly convey its decision to the BJP's parliamentary board for its consent to allow Yeddyurappa to head the new government.
'Awaiting Instructions From Delhi': Yeddyurappa
‘Kept Absent on Orders of High Command, was Meditating’: Expelled BSP MLA
“For all practical purposes, I have not violated anything. According to the directions of the high command i got myself absent, keeping neutral. That’s all. Today, only i came to know (about the expulsion)“
He went on to add that at a 23 June meeting with chief Mayawaiti, she had asked him to remain neutral and independent, without supporting the coalition or BJP in the house.
Ban on Sale of Liquor Withdrawn From 6pm Today
Bengaluru Commissioner of Police, Alok Kumar withdraws ban on the sale of liquor from 6 pm today, ANI reported. Earlier all pubs & wine shops in the city were ordered to be closed till 25th July.
Congress Leaders Meet Underway
Karnataka Congress leaders meeting underway in Bengaluru including Siddaramaiah, Krishna Byre Gowda, Dr G Parameshwara and DK Shivakumar
'Congress is Free, we're also Free; Top Priority is our Party': Kumaraswamy
Addressing mediapersons on Wednesday, Kumaraswamy said," Our top priority is to develop the party and regain confidence of people of Karnataka. We have called our MLAs to work out the future strategy. I don't know what the stance of Congress leaders will be in the future.”
On the future of Cong-JD(S) coalition, he told ANI:"on JD(S)-Congress coalition: Congress leaders have not discussed those issues with us. They're free, we're also free. If coalition works out, if they want we'll join hands with them otherwise we'll work by ourselves & strengthen our party on our own.
'Never Seen a National Party Allow This Type of Horsetrading': Deve Gowda
JD(S) Supremo HD Deve Gowda said that he had never seen such things happen before in his political career.
"The way in which a national party, BJP leadership allowed this type of horse trading, I have never seen in my life.”
On the future, he said,” There is no difference of opinion between the two parties, Congress & Janata Dal (Secular), one is a national party, another is a regional party. We have no regret of having the last coalition govt. We are not accusing anyone, including the former Chief Minister & other senior ministers."
Caretaker CM Passes Last Order For Debt Relief to Landless Labourers
Addressing reporters at the CM's official residence Krishna in Bengaluru, caretaker CM Kumaraswamy said that he was happy that he was able to bring relief to farmers, even while stepping down.
Kumaraswamy called it a one-time relief that will apply to all thosewho availed loans before the Act came into being. "This act lasts for a year and within that time the details of loans have to be submitted.There is no money going out from the government. It is just a one time waiver. The central government had sought multiple clarifications. There is no limit to the amount that can be waived," he said.
'Can't Force Speaker to Act on Resignations': BJP MLA
Confirming that a delegation of MLAs had met with the Speaker, JC Madhuswamy said that,"We met the Speaker today to impress upon clearing the money bill. We didn't have any discussions on the resignation of the rebel MLAs. Money bill is very vita. We cannot influence the speaker to speed up the resignation process because his office is a quasi judicial body"
BJP Delegation to Meet Senior Leaders Today
Arvind Limbavali said, "We are here to take guidance of the central leadership, for formation of the new government what should be the strategy and action plan. We are meeting Amit Shah, JP Nadda and other leaders at 9.30 AM."
"No Question of Rebels Returning to Original Parties": BJP MLA
“They (rebel MLAs) waited for 14 months to settle their issues. Those in power weren't gracious enough to consider their requests. Their bond is spoilt. No ques of them going back to their original parties. We've confidence and we're hopeful we'll form governtment,” said JC Madhuswamy.
Second Meeting With Amit Shah at 3 PM Today
The BJP delegation from Karnataka, including Jagdish Shettar, Basavraj Bommai and others reportedly concluded their morning meeting with party leaders in New Delhi on Thursday. A second meeting is planned for 3 pm this afternoon after which a decision on staking claim to form the next government can be expected.
SC Allows 2 Independents to Withdraw Their Petition Seeking Floor Test
Supreme Court allowed the two Karnataka independent MLAs to withdraw their petition, after HD Kumaraswamy lost the trust vote in Karnataka Assembly and tendered his resignation, ANI reported.
The SC reportedly expressed expressing anguish over senior advocates moving heaven and earth to get matters listed urgently, but not being present at the time of withdrawal. Senior advocates AM Singhvi and Mukul Rohatgi remained absent once again.
"Still Devoted to Voters": Rebel MLA Hebbar Returns to Constituency
One of the rebel MLAs who had tendered his resignation earlier has reportedly returned to his constituency in Yellapura, Karwar. He said that he was still devoted to his constituency but there was no question of withdrawing his resignation.
“After tendering my resignation and watching all the political developments in the state, we 15 rebels who have resigned have discussed a lot. We will not be withdrawing our resignations. Would like to apologize to my constituents. I would like to assure them that I am still committed to development activities. We worked under Siddaramaiah for 5 years but today we have resigned because we were dissatisfied with the state of affairs,” he said.
"Final Decision Will be Made in BJP Parliamentary Board Meeting": Shettar
“We met Amit Shah and JP Nadda regarding the political scenario in Karnataka, the formation of BJP govt there and steps to be taken. They want to discuss again this afternoon, then they will take a final decision in the Parliamentary Board meeting,” said Jagadish Shettar, senior BJP leader who along with others is in New Delhi to meet the high command to discuss plans of government formation.
'Trying to Shift Blame on Me': Siddaramaiah Slams Rebel MLAs
In a series of tweets, Siddaramaiah slammed the rebel MLAs for blaming him after "betraying and backstabbing" the electorate and the party.
Kumaraswamy Meets Cong Veteran Ramalinga Reddy
Caretaker CM HD Kumaraswamy met with senior Congress leader Ramalinga Reddy in Bengaluru today. Daughter and fellow Congress MLA Soumya Reddy was also present.
After the meeting, Kumaraswamy said,"I came to thank him for his support to the coalition. He is a senior leader and after we appealed to him to support us, he respected our words and proved that he is a true Congress party member, especially in this political situation.”
‘No Govt can be Stable in This Climate’: Kumaraswamy
Karnataka caretaker Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said on Thursday, 25 July that no one can give a stable government in the state in the present political scene after the fall of his ministry two days ago.
Kumaraswamy said the resignations by the rebel MLAs of the Congress-JDS coalition had pushed the state towards by-elections.
Rebel JD(S) MLA's son Meets Yeddyurappa
Rebel JD(S) MLA H Vishwanath’s son Amith Vishwanath has met state BJP Chief BS Yeddyurappa at his residence, ANI reported.
Speaker Ramesh Kumar to Brief Media
A special press briefing will be done by Speaker Ramesh Kumar at the Vidhana Soudha at 7:30 PM on Thursday.
Independent MLA Shankar Disqualified
Karnataka Speaker KR Ramesh disqualifies independent MLA Shankar.
“I thereby hold the respondent R Shankar, has incurred disqualification 2 1 (a) of the 10th schedule of the Constitution. He ceases to be a member of the Assembly from this date till the expiry of this session,” he said.
According to the Speaker’s order, Shankar was disqualified because he had merged his former party KPJP with the Congress.
“On 14 June, CLP leader Siddaramaiah had written to the Speaker that as per the 10th scheduled Shankar had merged with the Congress. This was approved by Congress Legislative Party on 25 June. Based on this, a direction were given to provide Shankar a special seat in the Assembly,” he said.
“On 8 July, Shankar and Nagesh (independents) met the Governor and resigned, but I have nothing to do with that. The Governor sent that to me. At the same time, Shankar wrote to Governor saying he is unequivocally going to support BJP. Governor sent this letter as well to me,” he added
Speaker Explains Stand on MLAs Ramesh Jarkiholi and Mahesh Kumtahalli
The Speaker also made a mention about two rebel MLAs, Ramesh Jarkiholi and Mahesh Kumtahalli, against whom disqualification was proposed by Congress party.
“A complaint of indulging in anti-party activities was filed against Ramesh Jarkiholi and Mahesh Kumtahalli in February and in July they tendered their resignations. They approached Supreme Court and claimed that speaker was not available. They falsely submitted sworn affidavit to SC. Ramesh Jarkiholi and Mahesh Kumtahalli never came to me directly. On 6 July, they never informed me that they were coming. They did not ask for an appointment or inform me they were planning to resign,” he said.
“They have come at 2:45pm after I left. My office staff reached out to me, and I told them to acknowledge it. On 8 July, I was not there, I returned on Tuesday, 9 July when I examined them. I found them not to be in the correct order, which has been specified,” he added.
However, no mention of whether they were disqualified was made by the speaker.
Speaker Clarifies Disqualification Provision
The Speaker clarified the provision of the disqualification and said that those who have been disqualified can't contest election again.
“If you submit your resignation and it's accepted, you can contest election again. If you're disqualified, you can't,” he added.
Speaker Disqualifies Ramesh Jarkiholi and Mahesh Kumtahalli
Rebel MLAs Ramesh Jarkiholi and Mahesh Kumtahalli have been disqualified. They can’t contest elections up to 2023.
“I therefore hold respondent no 1 Ramesh L Jarki, MLA from Gokak and Respondent no 2 Mahesh Kumtahalli, MLA from Athani, have incurred disqualification from being a member under scheduled 12 (1) (a) and read with article 191. Both cease to be members of assembly with immediate effect till the expiry of the term of this assembly” the Speaker’s order read.
“Several people are trying to give different interpretation of article 64, but I am clarifying that since they have been disqualified they can't contest election again in this term,” Speaker KR Ramesh clarified.
'Will Decide on Other Complaints in Couple of Days: Speaker
Speaker KR Ramesh after disqualifying three MLAs said that he will decide on other complaints in a “couple of days.”
“There are other complaints with me. I am still studying them and it will take couple of days more. When I decide it must be based on logic. In the next few days, I will make a decision and announce. For the rest of the term for the 15th assembly, they are disqualified,” he said.
'Disqualified MLAs Can Approach the Court': Speaker
The Speaker said that disqualified MLAs can approach the court.
“There are two options before them. Go to court as per article, which 32 provides the right to constitutional remedies and they can, if they want to exhaust appellate authority, they can go before HC, they are free to do so,” he said.
'If Finance Bill isn't Passed, Govt Will Come to a Standstill': Speaker
Speaker KR Ramesh said that the finance Bill must be passed by 31 July.
“The outgoing government has sought accounts till 31 July. If the finance bill is not passed by the House before that day, the government comes to a standstill. Politics is different, you cannot penalize the state. Representatives of all parties should see to that such an impasse/constitutional crisis is not created and people are not harassed,” he said.
“If a new CM is sworn in and he seeks my support to pass the Bill, I have a constitutional duty to help him pass the Bill. Caretaker chief minister can't seek my help as he has already lost the confidence of the House,” he added.
'Will try to Stake Claim to Form Govt Today': Yeddyurappa
BS Yeddyurappa to Take Oath at 6PM Today
Soon after announcing plans to meet the Governor, BJP state president BS Yeddyurappa reached Raj Bhavan to stake claim to form the next government in the state. He is all set to take oath at 6PM today
'Will Take Oath at 6 pm, Request all MLAs to be Present': Yeddyurappa
Addressing the press moments after his meeting with the Governor, Yeddyurappa said that he would be taking oath at 6 pm. He invited former CMs HD Kumaraswamy and Siddaramaiah to his oath-taking ceremony.
“Just now, I met the Governor to form the government and take oath as CM of Karnataka. He has agreed and written a letter. Around 6-6:15 pm, I will take oath. I request all our Congress, JD(S) and BJP MLAs to participate, especially former CM Kumaraswamy and CLP leader Siddaramaiah. I will also be writing individual letters to them,” he said.
Karnataka Congress Slams 'Former Jail Bird' Yeddyurappa
Siddaramaiah Says Hasty Move to Become CM Show's BJP's Lack of Confidence
Siddaramaiah tweeted on Friday, "Despite not having a majority, BS Yeddyurappa's hasty decision to stake claim and become CM has been accepted by the Governor. This is a dangerous development for parliamentary democracy and the Constitution. This proves BJP's lack of confidence."
Yeddyurappa to Prove Majority by 31 July
BJP's BS Yeddyurappa will have to prove majority in the Assembly by 31 July, ANI reported.
Yeddyurappa met Governor Vala earlier today to stake claim to form the next government in Karnataka.
Yeddyurappa Enjoys Support of Majority of MLAs, Will Provide Stable Govt: BJP MP
BJP MP Shobha Karandlaje on Friday asserted that BS Yeddyurappa enjoys the support of a majority of MLAs in the state assembly and he will provide a stable government.
Speaking to reporters, Karandlaje, a former minister in the state and considered a Yeddyurappa loyalist, refuted suggestions that the BJP central leadership wanted to adopt a more cautious approach and wait for a few more days.
"Yeddyurappa staked claim to form the government only after getting a nod from the central leadership. He and the central leaders are on the same page," the Lok Sabha MP from the state said.
Yeddyurappa Changes His Name's Spelling, To Take Oath as 'Yediyurappa'
BJP's BS Yeddyurappa will be taking oath as Karnataka chief minister using the name 'BS Yediyurappa' today.
'K'taka Govt was Bound to Fall; BJP Synonymous to Stability': JP Nadda
The Karnataka government was bound to fall, we are bound to give a clean and pure government, BJP working president JP Nadda told mediapersons on Friday. On Yediyurappa's age, he said,"He is an elected leader and therefore taking oath. As leader of Opposition his age was not questioned and when he is taking oath For CM, now you are questioning it. This is not right. BJP is synonymous to stability."
BSY to Address Party Workers Before Oath-Taking
One hour before he due to take oath as CM for the fourth time, BS Yediyurappa will address party workers at Jagannath Bhavan in Malleshwaram, Bengaluru at 5 pm.
Yediyurappa Directs a Hold on all Orders Given by Kumaraswamy in July
Yediyurappa Leaves for BJP Office
BJP State President BS Yediyurappa leaves from his residence for BJP office. He will take oath as Chief Minister today at 6 pm
Cabinet Meeting at 7 pm
Addressing party workers in Bengaluru, Yediyurappa said that he would convene cabinet meeting at 7 pm to discuss the development of the state.
'Will not Play Revenge Politics; Have a Huge Responsibility': BSY
Addressing party workers ahead of his swearing-in at 6pm today, CM designate Yediyurappa said that it was only with the blessings of Amit Shah and PM Modi did he approach the governor to form the government.
“This was the outcome 6.5 crore people were waiting for. We have a huge responsibility to farmers, drought affected and other communities. People will see the change in 3 months. People saw earlier how good the development was when we were also in power at the centre. We can expect similar things this time,” he said.
He also said that this possible only if all the parties worked together.
Yediyurappa En-route Raj Bhavan
BJP Karnataka President BS Yediyurappa is en-route Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru. He will take oath as the chief minister shortly.
Yediyurappa Reaches Raj Bhavan
BS Yediyurappa reaches Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru. He will take oath as the Karnataka chief minister shortly.
Tejasvi Surya Reaches Raj Bhavan
BJP MP Tejasvi Surya arrives at Raj Bhavan for Yediyurappa’s oath-taking ceremony.
Rebel Congress MLA Roshan Baig Arrives at Raj Bhavan
Rebel Congress MLA Roshan Baig attends Yediyurappa's swearing in.
Vajubhai Vala Arrives at Raj Bhavan
Governor Vajubhai Vala arrives at Raj Bhavan.
Yediyurappa Takes Oath as Karnataka CM
Senior BJP leader BS Yediyurappa took oath as the new chief minister of Karnataka.
Yediyurappa Addresses a Press Conference
Newly-appointed Karnataka CM Yediyurappa begins his address by paying tribute to Kargil martyrs.
'We Won't Indulge in Revenge Politics': Yediyurappa
BS Yediyurappa on Friday assured the people of Karnataka and the Opposition that his government will not indulge in "revenge politics". “We have to show the difference between the 14 months-old government and ours. I want to assure the people and the Opposition that we will not indulge in revenge politics," Yediyurappa said.
'Our Govt Will Prove Majority on 29 July': Yediyurappa
BS Yediyurappa said on Friday, 26 July, that his government will take the floor test and prove its majority at 10 am on 29 July. The Finance Bill will be also passed on the same day, he said.
Speaking to reporters after holding cabinet meeting, he said the legislative council would begin its proceedings on 30 July.
'Will Discuss State Cabinet Formation With Amit Shah': Yediyurappa
Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Friday, 26 July, said that he will discuss the matter of State Cabinet formation with Amit Shah and other leaders. "If necessary, I will go to Delhi tomorrow, we will take the decision afterwards," Yediyurappa said.
Disqualified MLAs to Move Supreme Court
Rebel Congress MLAs Ramesh L Jarkiholi, Mahesh Kumathalli and Independent MLA R Shankarhave, who were disqualified and banned from contesting elections by Karnataka Assembly Speaker Ramesh Kumar on Thursday, 25 July will move the Supreme Court against their disqualification.