Karnataka Guv Appoints BJP MLA as Pro Tem Speaker, Floor Test Tmrw
BS Yeddyurappa has to prove he has the majority during the floor test in the Karnataka Assembly on Saturday, 19 May.
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The Karnataka governor has appointed BJP MLA KG Bopaiah as the pro team speaker of the Assembly, overriding the convention of the most senior MLA being appointed to the post.
The SC has ordered a floor test at 4 pm tomorrow. The Karnataka DGP has also been ordered to ensure safety of the MLAs.
BS Yeddyurpaa, the chief minister, has been instructed not to take any major policy decisions till the floor test concludes.
- Congress has filed a fresh petition in the SC, challenging BJP MLA KG Bopaiah’s appointment as pro tem speaker
- Karnataka Congress has leveled allegations of bribery against the BJP
- Supreme Court has ordered that a floor test be conducted in the Karnataka Assembly at 4 pm on Saturday
- The Karnataka Director General of Police has been ordered to ensure the safety of the MLAs
- Yeddyurappa shall not take any major policy decisions, orders SC
SC to Hear Plea at 10.30 am on Saturday
The Supreme Court will hear the plea filed by the Congress-JD(S) alliance challenging the appointment of KG Bopaiah as pro tem speaker at 10.30 am.
The plea will be heard by a bench comprising of Justices AK Sikri, SA Bobde and Ashok Bhushan.
I'm in Touch with the JD(S) MLAs: BJP MLA
Preetham Gowda, a BJP MLA, alleged that he was in touch with the defecting JD(S) MLAS. Speaking to reporters, he said:
Two MLAs Hijacked by BJP: HD Kumaraswamy
Speaking to reporters, HD Kumaraswamy alleged that two MLAs from the Congress-JD(S) alliance had been ‘hijacked’ to the BJP camp.
He however asserted that the alliance had the strength required to form government.
Siddaramaiah Appointed Congress Legislative Head
In a meeting in Hyderabad, where the Congress MLAs were lodged, former CM Siddaramaiah was appointed as the Congress Legislature Party leader. This post was earlier held by G Parameshwara.
Congress-JD(S) File Fresh Petition in SC Challenging Pro Tem Speaker Appointment
The Congresss-JD(S) alliance have filed a fresh petition in the Supreme Court, challenging the appointment of BJP MLA Bopaiah as pro tem speaker.
The Congress-JD(S), in their petition, have alleged that the appointment is a ‘blatant move to manipulate voting on trust motion.’
Earlier reports stated that Congress lawyers were barred from entering the premises of the court by the guards.
We Will Win Tomorrow: BS Yeddyurappa
Speaking to reporters, BS Yeddyurappa, the Chief Minister said:
Congress MLAs Leave Hyderabad for Bengaluru
The Congress MLAs, who were lodged in the Taj Krishna in Hyderabad, have left for Bengaluru ahead of tomorrow’s floor test.
Karnataka Congress Releases Audio Clip Alleging Horse-Trading by BJP
In a press conference, the Karnataka Congress has released an audio clip alleging horse-trading by the BJP. In the clip, Janardhan Reddy is heard bribing Congress MLA Basanagouda Daddal with promises of making money.
In the recording, Reddy is heard telling the MLA that an individual meeting with Amit Shah would be arranged, promising that the MLA “would earn a hundred times what he lost”.
The MLA in question is heard rejecting the offer, saying that his loyalties lie with the Congress who gave him a ticket.
Responding to the allegations, Union Miniser Prakash Javadekar said:
BJP MLAs to Meet in Bengaluru Hotel
MLAs from the BJP are expected to meet at 9 pm at Bengaluru’s Shangri La Hotel to strategise ahead of tomorrow’s floor test.
Congress-JD(S) Might Not Approach SC Today: Sources
Sources told The Quint that the Congress-JD(S) alliance might not approach the Supreme Court today as the court goes on vacation from today.
The alliance had intended to file a petition challenging the appointment of BJP MLA Bopaiah as the pro tem speaker.
Sources say that if the parties fail to do so today, they will file the petition tomorrow. However, since the court is on vacation, it remains unclear as to which bench will hear the matter.
Congress Slams KG Bopaiah's Appointment as Pro Tem Speaker
Hitting out at the governor over KG Bopaiah’s appointment as pro tem speaker, Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the governor had once again ‘launched an encounter on the Constitution’.
He further alleged that the BJP was attempting to manufacture a majority through ‘nefarious’ means. Surjewala added that the option of going to Court over the appointment was ‘open’.
Siddaramaiah to Meet Congress MLAs
Former CM Siddaramaiah has reached the Hyderabad hotel, where the Congress MLAs are currently lodged. He is expected to meet them over the floor test tomorrow.
Governor Calls for Special Assembly Tomorrow at 11 am
The governor has called for a special assembly tomorrow at 11 am, presumably to swear-in the MLAs before the floor test at 4 pm.
Congress to Challenge Bopaiah's Appointment in SC: Reports
Reports suggest that Congress lawyers are currently on their way to the SC to file a petition challenging appointment of BJP MLA Bopaiah as pro tem speaker of Karnataka Assembly.
Congress claims the most senior MLA RV Deshpande, who's incidentally from Congress, is traditionally supposed to have been appointed pro tem speaker.
Letter Presented to the Governor by Yeddyurappa
The BJP’s counsel presented a letter dated 16 May to the Supreme Court, where BS Yeddyurappa, the newly sworn-in Chief Miniser of Karnataka, stated that since the BJP was the single largest party, it had a ‘rightful claim’ to form the government.
The letter was addressed to the Governor of Karanataka, and was signed by BS Yeddyurappa.
KG Bopaiah Takes Oath as Pro Tem Speaker
KG Bopaiah took oath as the pro tem speaker, minutes after he was appointed to the post. The oath was administered by the governor.
Congress Raises Objection to Pro Tem Speaker Appointment, BJP Backs Decision
Lashing out at the BJP over Bopaiah’s appointment, Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi said:
Responding to the allegations leveled by the Congress, BJP Minister Prakash Javadekar tweeted:
KG Bopaiah Made Pro Tem Speaker
KG Bopaiah, the BJP MLA from Kodagu, has been appointed the pro tem speaker by the governor, ahead of the floor test tomorrow.
KG Bopaiah’s appointment comes despite Congress MLA RV Deshpande being the senior-most. As per convention, the senior-most MLA is made the pro tem speaker.
A reason why both parties wanted the pro tem speaker to be their candidate, was due to the powers enjoyed by the Speaker with regard to the anti-defection law. In case of cross-voting, the Speaker can delay the proceedings regarding the anti-defection law till whenever.
Read the SC Order on the Floor Test Here:
A special bench of the Supreme Court, headed by Justice AK Sikri, ordered that a floor test be conducted in the Karnataka Assembly on Saturday, 19 May, at 4 pm.
The Supreme Court was hearing the petition of the Congress and the Janata Dal (Secular) challenging the order of Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala to allow BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa to form the government in the state.
The order, passed by the bench, read:
Read the entire order here.
Congress Addresses Press Conference
Congress' Double Standard Over Judiciary Is Exposed: Sambit Patra
Addressing the media in Delhi, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra hit out at the Congress for rejoicing Supreme Court’s order on conducting the floor test in Karnataka. Patra said, “This is the same Congres that wanted to impeach the CJI. this shows the double standards of teh Congress towards the judiciary.”
I Believe I Will Be Appointed the Pro Tem Speaker: RV Deshpande
Speaking to The News Minute, Congress leader RV Deshpande said, “I assume I am the senior most in the Assembly and will be appointed the pro tem speaker. There is no question of a secret ballot anyway. It will either be a voice vote or a division of votes.”
However, according News18, BJP could nominate Umesh Katti or Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri as the pro tem speaker and they might not for for Congress’ RV Despande.
Who Is a Pro Tem Speaker?
A pro tem Speaker is appointed by the Governor of the state for a limited period of time, or until the Legislative Assembly elects its Speaker.
Procedurally, the Governor elects the senior most member as the pro tem Speaker.
Congress leader RV Deshpande is the senior most member in the House and has won elections eight out of the nine times that he has contested the elections since 1983. Meanwhile, the second most senior member in the House is BJP’s Umesh Vishwanath Katti – who has won seven out of eight elections since 1985.
Explaining the Magic Figure
Our MLAs are With Us: GT Devegowda, JD(S) MLA
JD(S) MLA GT Devegowda said that the elected legislators of the Congress-JD(S) combine remain intact, and the MLAs will soon leave for Bengaluru.
“Rs 100 crore or Rs 200 crore, our MLAs are with us. None of our members are going away. Today evening or tomorrow early morning, we all are leaving for Bengaluru,” Devegowda said.
CPI(M)'s Sitaram Yechury Addresses Media
Congress Leader Ghulam Nabi Azad and Siddaramaiah Address the Media
Addressing the media in Bengaluru on Friday, 18 May, Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad and former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah hailed the Supreme Court’s decision of conducting a floor test to prove majority in Karnataka state Assembly on Saturday.
“I would like to thank the Supreme Court for restoring democracy. The BJP is the single largest party but we had 117 elected representatives and met Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala to stake claim much before the BJP did,” Azad said.
Accusing Governor Vala of favouritism, Azad said, “No governor in the history of India has given a political party 15 days to prove majority. Why was Yeddyurappa given 15 days then?”
Former chief minister Siddaramaiah too claimed the time given to the BJP was to break some MLAs out of the Congress-JD(S) coalition.
Our Stand Has Been Vindicated: Rahul Gandhi
Soon after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test for the BJP to prove its majority in the Karnataka Assembly, Congress president Rahul Gandhi expressed his happiness and hailed the top court’s decision.
Where the Parties Stand
100% Confident of Proving Majority: BS Yeddyurappa
After the Supreme Court ordered a floor test in the Karnataka Assembly, BS Yeddyurappa, who took oath as the Chief Minister on 17 May, expressed confidence that the party would prove its majority.
“Will discuss with the chief secretary and call for Assembly session tomorrow. We are 100 percent confident that we will prove full majority,” Yeddyurappa said.
Abhishek Manu Singhvi Calls Verdict 'Historic'
Congress-JD(S) counsel, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, hailed the Supreme Court’s decision to conduct the floor test in the Karnataka Assembly on Saturday, 19 May.
Speaking to the media after the SC proceedings, Singhvi said, “The SC has delivered a historic verdict; many important directions have been given, one of them being that floor test has to be conducted at 4 pm tomorrow under a pro tem speaker.”
BJP Is Ready and Confident of Winning the Trust Vote: Prakash Javadekar
After the Supreme Court ordered a floor test on Saturday, 19 may, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said the party was confident of winning the trust vote.
Javadekar tweeted:
Speaking to the media after the Supreme Court order, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Shobha Karandlaje also seemed confident of proving their majority on the floor of the House.
Pro Tem Speaker to Choose Mode of Floor Test
The pro tem speaker will decide how the floor test in conducted, said the Supreme Court, turning down the request for a secret ballot.
SC Restrains BS Yedyurappa From Taking Any Major Policy Decisions
Supreme Court has restrained BS Yedyurappa from taking any major policy decisions till the floor test is conducted. The SC has also restrained the government from nominating any Anglo-Indian member to the House till it proves majority.
SC Orders Floor Test Tomorrow, Rohatgi Seeks More Time
The Supreme Court refused to delay the conduct of the floor test in Karnataka. This, despite BJP counsel Mukul Rohatgi seeking more time for the same, and a last ditch argument to fix the floor test for Monday, 21 May.
Congress-JD(S) Ready for Floor test Tomorrow: Abhishek Singhvi
Arguing on behalf of the Congress-JD(S) combine, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi told the Supreme Court that the Congress and the JD(S) are also ready for the floor test tomorrow.
Floor Test Seems to Be the Best Option: Justice Sikri
Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri, part of the 3-judge bench hearing the Congress-JD(S) petition, said, "A floor test seems to be the best option,” reported ANI.
The top court observed that as Yeddyurappa has claimed support and the BJP is the single largest party, there could be two probabilities – either the governor’s decision has to be tested, or a floor test has to be conducted on Saturday, 19 May, reported ANI.
BJP Counsel Hands Over Letters to SC
BJP counsel Mukul Rohatgi hands over to the Supreme Court two letters BS Yeddyurappa wrote to Governor Vajubhai Vala to stake claim to form the government in Karnataka, after the apex court had ordered the party to. BJP is considering ordering a floor test on Saturday, 19 May.
Cong-JD(S) to Produce Affidavits of 116 MLAs in SC
To prove their majority in the Supreme Court on Friday, 18 May, the Congress-Janata Dal (Secular) combine is likely to produce affidavits of its 116 MLAs, a top source familiar with the matter told The Quint.
According to the sources, the 116 affidavits don’t include that of Congress MLA Anand Singh, who reportedly went incommunicado on Thursday, 17 May.
Former Deputy CM Challenges Cong-JD(S) Plea
BJP MLA and former deputy chief minister R Ashoka has filed an intervention application in the matter challenging the governor's decision.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal is also present at the Supreme Court to argue on behalf of the Congress party.
There Is No Issue of Horse-Trading: BJP Counsel Mukul Rohatgi
With the Supreme Court hearing to begin shortly, BJP’s lawyer Mukul Rohatgi said the party will produce newly-inducted Karnataka CM Yeddyurappa's letter in the court.
“It (the letter) shows he has support and support will be shown in the House. There is no issue of horse-trading; it is the other way, as MLAs have been taken to resorts,” Rohatgi said.
PM Modi Wishes JD(S) chief Deve Gowda on His Birthday
As the power tussle between the BJP and Congress-JD(S) continues in Karnataka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to wish JD(S) chief Deve Gowda on his birthday on Friday, 18 May.
BJP Will Prove Its Majority: B Bommai
Just an hour before the Supreme Court will begin hearing the case at 10.30 am on Friday, 18 May, BJP leader B Bommai exuded confidence that the saffron party will be able to prove its majority.
According to ANI, while speaking to the media, Bommai said, “Don't know where the MLAs are? They are misleading people for the last 3-4 days. You will know how we will prove the majority and how many MLAs support the government. We will respect the SC's judgment, it'll have a bearing on further developments in Karnataka.”
BS Yeddyurappa Calls for Top-Level Meeting
A day after being sworn-in as the chief minister of Karnataka, BS Yeddyurappa called for a meeting of Karnataka Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police at his residence in Bengaluru.
Karnataka MLAs Reach Hyderabad
Speaking to ANI, Congress MP DK Suresh said, “They (MLAs) are coming (to Park Hyatt, Hyderabad) here; we are arranging everything here. We are waiting for them, in another two hours they will come – the JD(S) and Congress MLAs both.”
According to ANI, few Karnataka Congress MLAs have also arrived at Hyderabad’s Taj Krishna Hotel and Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) chief Uttam Kumar Reddy is accompanying them.
Congress-JD(S) MLAs Spotted in Mahabubnagar
The buses carrying Congress-JD(S) MLAs were spotted in Mahabubnagar in Telangana, which is about a 100-km away from Hyderabad. Earlier reports had suggested that the MLAs might be moved to Cochin.
Meanwhile, speaking to news agency ANI, Kerala JD(S) MLA MT Thomas said that he is not sure about where the MLAs are headed.
“I am sure they (Karnataka JD(S) MLAs) aren't coming by flight, so I'm moving to Kurnool. Not sure about destination but if they come here, they're welcome. I was expecting them yesterday, but Civil Aviation Dept didn't give permission to charter a flight,” Thomas said.
HD Deve Gowda Visits Tirupati Temple
As the political turmoil in Karnataka continues, JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda visited the Tirupati Temple in Andhra Pradesh late on 17 May.
Cong, JD(S) MLAs Moving in Together: Kumaraswamy
JD(S) leader Kumaraswamy confirmed that both Congress and JD(S) MLAs were being shifted out of Bengaluru and will move in to the same place. The location, however, was not disclosed by Kumaraswamy.
JD(S) MLAs Leave Shangri-La Hotel
JD(S) MLAs leave the Shangri-La Hotel in Bengaluru. A party MLA Shivarame Gowda told ANI that some Congress-JD(S) MLAs are going to Kochi, while some others are going to Hyderabad.
MLAs Seen Outside Eagleton Resort
Congress MLAs seen outside Eagleton Resort where they were staying. Party leader Ramalinga Reddy earlier claimed that after the police was withdrawn from outside the resort, BJP members came inside and offered money to the Congress MLAs.
Security Stepped Up in Kochi's Crowne Plaza
Amid reports suggesting that permission was denied to chartered planes that were to shift Congress and JD(S) MLAs, security has reportedly been tightened in Kochi’s Crowne Plaza.
Congress MLAs' Plan to Fly to Kochi Foiled: Reports
The Air Traffic Control has denied permission to three chartered planes that were to shift the Karnataka MLAs to Kochi, Kerala on Thursday night, reported NDTV citing sources.
According to CNN-News18, the MLAs had left the Eagleton Resort near Bengaluru and were set to stay at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Kochi.
BJP People Came Inside Eagleton Resort and Offered Money: Congress
Congress leader Ramalinga Reddy accused the BJP of making attempts to poach his party MLAs, saying:
No Congratulations For CM Yeddyurappa From PM Modi Till Now
While BS Yeddyurappa was sworn-in as the CM of Karnataka earlier on Thursday, PM Modi has not congratulated the BJP leader till now.
Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi took a jibe at Modi on this, questioning whether he does not have confidence in the Yeddyurappa-led government already.
Deve Gowda Has a Telephonic Conversation With Rahul Gandhi
Former PM and national president of the JD(S) HD Deve Gowda had a telephonic conversation with Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday evening over the current political situation in Karnataka, reported ANI.
New Advocate General For Karnataka Appointed
Hours after BS Yeddyurappa was sworn-in as Karnataka CM, Governor Vajubhai Vala appointed Prabhuling K Navadagi as the new advocate general for the state, in place of Madhusudhan Naik, who has resigned.
We Have Decided to Go to Kerala: JD(S) Leader
Amid speculation that the Congress and the JD(S) will move their leaders outside Karnataka to protect them from poaching, the latter party's leader Basavaraj Horatti, said:
Meanwhile, Congress leader ST Somashekhar told the media that the decision to shift the MLAs from the Eagleton Resort to some other place would be taken only after a party meeting on Thursday evening.
Watch: BJP Addresses Media After Congress Stakes Claim to Form Govt in Goa, Manipur
Addressing the media after Congress staked claim to form the government in states like Goa and Manipur, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said:
He further asserted that "whatever happened in Karnataka is according to the law, as per the rulebook and the Constitution."
'It is Their Duty to Provide Protection': Congress Leader
After security deployed outside the Eagleton resort was removed, the Congress MLAs lodged inside the resort criticised the move.
Speaking to reporters outside the resort, KH Muniyappa from the Congress said:
The Congress on Thursday staked claim to form the government in states like Manipur and Goa, reasoning that like the BJP in Karnataka, they had also emerged as the single-largest party in the elections in these states held last year.
Congress Protests in Mumbai, Lucknow and Jaipur
Members and supporters of the Congress are holding demonstrations in various cities, including Mumbai, Lucknow and Jaipur, to protest against the Karnataka Governor's invitation to BS Yeddyurappa to form the government in the state.
Police Forces Removed From Eagleton Resort
Around 25 policemen deployed outside the Eagleton Resort near Bengaluru, where the Congress MLAs are currently lodged to avoid poaching, have been removed.
Congress Plans to Organise Dharnas Across States to Protest Against Governor's Move
Planning to intensify its protests against the Karnataka Governor for inviting BS Yeddyurappa to form the government in the state, AICC general secretary Ashok Gehlot has now issued a letter requesting all Pradesh Congress Committees, party leaders and workers to organise dharnas at various state capitals and district headquarters on Friday.
Cong-JD(S) Move SC Against Nomination of Anglo-Indian MLA in Karnataka Assembly
The Congress-JD(S) combine has moved a fresh plea in the Supreme Court challenging the governor's decision to nominate an Anglo-Indian MLA to the Assembly, saying it should not be done till the floor test in the House.
The apex court will be hearing the plea on Friday, along with the main case against the Karnataka Governor for inviting BS Yeddyurappa to form the government.
In the petition, the Congress-JD(S) has sought a direction that the nomination of Anglo-Indian Vinisha Nero by the Governor be set aside till Yeddyurappa undergoes a floor test in the House to prove his majority, reported PTI.
The fresh petition will be heard by a bench comprising Justices AK Sikri, SA Bobde and Ashok Bhushan, which refused to stay the swearing-in of BS Yeddyurappa as Karnataka CM in a post-midnight hearing.
The strength of the Karnataka Assembly is 224 and nomination of one Anglo-Indian member takes it to 225.
Watch: Newly-Appointed Karnataka CM Yeddyurappa Addresses the Media in Bengaluru
IPS Officers Transferred in Karnataka After BSY Takes Charge
On the day BJP's BS Yeddyurappa took charge as Karnataka CM, several IPS officers in the state were transferred.
The transfers include changing two top intelligence officers.
D Devaraja, superintendent of police in Bidar district, has been posted as DCP, central division, Bengaluru city. Notably, various important government buildings, including the Raj Bhavan and the Vidhan Soudha, come under the central division.
'We Dare BJP to Prove Majority Tomorrow Itself': Congress Spokesperson Randeep Surjewala
Addressing a press conference after Yeddyurappa was sworn-in as the CM of Karnataka, Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala slammed the BJP leader, saying he is "going to be the CM only for a day".
He further trained guns on Karnataka governor Vajubhai Vala for inviting Yeddyurappa to form the government.
Karnataka Spillover: Congress MLAs in Goa Now Staking Claim to Form Govt in State
Reacting to the developments in Karnataka, Congress leaders are now seeking to the meet the Governor in Goa and stake claim to form the government in the state, reasoning that it had emerged as the single-largest party in the elections there last year.
Sources told ANI that Congress leader in-charge of Goa will be leaving for the state, and will be meeting the Governor on Friday, 18 May, staking claim to form the government. Media reports also state that Congress may also parade all its 16 MLAs in front of Raj Bhavan.
A similar campaign is being planned in Manipur and Meghalaya too, where the Congress emerged as the single-largest party in the assembly elections.
Congress-JD(S) MLAs Might be Flown to Cochin
To prevent alleged “horse-trading” by BJP, MLAs elected from the Congress and JD(S) might be flown to a resort in Cochin, sources told The Quint.
Mayawati, Stalin, and Others React to Karnataka Suspense
Leaders from across the political spectrum weighed-in on the suspense over government formation in Karnataka.
BJP to Karnataka is LG to Delhi: AAP
It’s Democracy vs Demoncracy: Tejashwi Yadav
Governor’s Decision is Arbitrary & Unconstitutional: MK Stalin
BJP Is Conspiring to Destroy Ambedkar’s Constitution: Mayawati
BSP chief Mayawati told ANI, “It is a conspiracy to destroy the constitution made by Baba Saheb Ambedkar, since they (BJP) came to power they have been misusing government machinery, thereby attacking democracy.”
Karnataka a Rehearsal for Lok Sabha: Yashwant Sinha
Role of Governor Dictated by Govt: Punjab CM Amarinder Singh
Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh told ANI, “The Governor is going against the Constitution. The role of Governor is being dictated by the government. He was an RSS member and a Cabinet Minister under Modi Saheb in Gujarat. It is obvious that he will listen to the Centre.”
He had earlier tweeted saying “Democracy has been brazenly manipulated, mutilated and massacred in Karnataka.”
Raj Bhavan Turned into BJP Office: Randeep Surjewala
Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said that the Karnataka Raj Bhawan has been converted into a BJP party office.
BJP Has to Submit Letter of Support to SC by 2 pm
The Supreme Court has directed the BJP to submit the letter of support – which it had sent to the Karnataka governor – before 2 pm on Thursday, 17 May.
It is a Short-Lived Government: DK Shivakumar
As Congress-JD(S) MLAs leave for their resorts, Congress MLA DK Shivakumar told ANI, “It is a short lived government, we are confident because we have the majority. We will fight for justice. 100 percent all our MLAs are with us.”
Here's What BJP and Congress Leaders Said About Floor Test
While former Karnataka chief minister and Congress leader Siddaramaiah confirmed to ANI that all the 118 Congress and JD(S) MLAs are in agreement of the alliance, the BJP’s Sriramulu said independent MLAs are supporting the saffron party.
Ram Jethmalani Moves SC Against Governor Vala's Decision
Senior lawyer and jurist Ram Jethmalani on Thursday, 17 May, moved the Supreme Court in his personal capacity against the Karnataka governor's decision to invite the BJP to form the government in the state, saying it was a "gross abuse of constitutional power".
A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra considered Jethmalani’s submission seeking urgent hearing and said that a three-judge special bench – which had heard the matter on the intervening night of 16-17 May – would re-assemble on Friday, 18 May.
"The governor’s order is a gross abuse of the constitutional power and this has brought disrepute to the constitutional office he has been holding," Jethmalani submitted while seeking nod to submit his views in the case.
Yeddyurappa Reiterates Promises of Farm and Crop Loan Waiver
BS Yeddyurappa, in his first press conference as the Karnataka chief minister, reiterated his promises of farm and crop loan waiver. On the ability to prove majority during floor test, he said, “Wait till tomorrow or day after.”
He later took to Twitter to thank his people for voting him in as the Chief Minister of the state.
Rahul Gandhi attacks BJP in a Press Conference
In a press conference in Chattisgarh’s Raipur, Congress President Rahul Gandhi said, “Today constitution is being attacked. In Karnataka, on one side there are MLAs standing, and on the other side the governor. JD(S) has said its MLAs have been offered Rs 100 crore each.”
There is No Democracy Left to Murder: Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut
“BS Yeddyurappa has taken the oath but it's difficult to prove majority. Governor should have called those who had maximum numbers,” Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut told ANI.
“When this happens people say, loktantra ki hatya ho gayi, lekin jab desh mein loktantra bacha hi nahi hai toh hatya kiski hogi (People say democracy has been murdered, but there is no democracy left to kill).”
We Have Signatures of 77 MLAs: Congress' Gundu Rao
Senior Congress leader Gundu Rao confirmed that the party has signatures of 77 MLAs. The missing signature is that of Vijayanagara MLA, Anand Singh, he told The Quint.
Yeddyurappa Will Provide Stable and Responsible Govt: Ananth Kumar
“BS Yeddyurappa has become Karnataka CM for the third time. I have confidence that he will provide a stable and responsible government,” BJP MP Ananth Kumar told ANI. “It is unfortunate that Congress being an old age party is indulging in nefarious activities, they should work as a constructive opposition party,” he said.
"Modi Govt Misusing Institutions": Kumaraswamy
“Modi government is misusing institutions of the central government,” JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy told ANI. The Congress-JD(S) combine’s CM-designate accused the BJP of threatening their alliance MLAs. “I know they are threatening MLAs. Anand Singh (Cong MLA) told me 'they are using ED, I had a case in ED and they will now cause problems for me’. ‘I'm sorry I have to protect my interest,' another Cong MLA who spoke to Singh told me,” he said.
He added, “I will request my father (HD Deve Gowda) to take the lead and talk to all regional parties and see how BJP is destroying democratic systems, we have to come together to protect interests of the country.”
There Was No Need to Hear the Matter Urgently at Night: Mukul Rohatgi
“There was no urgency according to me. The matter need not have been listed at night,” Mukul Rohatgi, who appeared for the BJP in Supreme Court during the late night hearing of the plea filed by Congress-JD(S) against the governor’s decision, told ANI. “The SC has the power to undo if any wrong is done. Last night we didn't have all the papers, except the petition,” he said.
CM Yeddyurappa Arrives at Vidhan Soudha
Congress-JD(S) Alliance is "Murder of Democracy": Amit Shah
BJP chief Amit Shah, in a series of tweets, slammed Rahul Gandhi, calling the Congress-JD(S)’s eleventh-hour alliance as “desperate” and “opportunist”.
HD Deve Gowda Leaves to Meet JD(S) MLAs
JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda has left from his residence for Shangri-La Hotel, where JD(S) MLAs are lodged. The MLAs are scheduled to join the Congress in their protest at the Vidhan Soudha shortly.
Congress MLAs Arrives at Vidhan Soudha
The Congress MLAs who were lodged at the Eagleton resort have arrived at the Vidhan Soudha to join the Congress leaders protesting against Yeddyurappa taking oath as the Karnataka CM.
Yeddyurappa Feasts After Taking Oath as CM
Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa shares a meal with BJP leaders Ananth Kumar and Murlidhar Rao after his swearing-in ceremony.
Congress Leaders Protest Outside Karnataka Assembly
Congress’ Ghulam Nabi Azad, Ashok Gehlot, Mallikarjun Kharge, KC Venugopal and former CM Siddaramaiah protest in front of Mahatma Gandhi's statue outside Karnataka's Vidhan Soudha.
We Will Tell the People How BJP Went Against Constitution: Siddaramaiah
Former Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah said, “The matter is pending before the Court. We will go to the people and we will tell them how BJP is going against the Constitution.”
Celebrations for Yeddyurappa in Full Swing!
BJP Made a Mockery of Our Constitution: Rahul Gandhi
Congress President Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP of making a “mockery of our constitution”, claiming that the saffron party’s “irrational insistence” to form the government even though it doesn't have the numbers has caused the "defeat of democracy"
Rahul, Sonia & Siddaramaiah Have Ruined Congress: Ananth Kumar
BJP MP Ananth Kumar said, “If Congress wants to protest, they should protest against Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Siddaramaiah, as this trio has ruined the Congress.”
Congress, JD(S) MLAs to Protest Outside Karnataka Assembly
Congress and JD(S) MLAs leave from Eagleton Resort, where they were kept to prevent horse-trading, to stage a protest outside Vidhana Soudha (Karnataka Assembly).
Outside Eagleton resort, Congress MLA UT Khader told ANI, “All MLAs are in contact, the two MLAs who are not present here right now will come, I also just came back from Mangaluru.”
BS Yeddyurappa Takes Oath as the Karnataka CM
The BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa sworn-in as the Karnataka chief minister in the presence of governor Vajubhai Vala amid chants of “Modi Modi”.
Yeddyurappa shows the victory sign after being sworn-in as Chief Minister of Karnataka.
Live: Swearing-In Ceremony of BS Yeddyurappa as CM
Yeddyurappa Arrives at Raj Bhavan
BS Yeddyurappa arrives at Raj Bhavan where he will take oath as Karnataka Chief Minister shortly.
Yeddyurappa Offers Prayers Before Swearing-In Ceremony
CM designate BS Yeddyurappa offered prayers at a temple before his swearing-in ceremony.
BS Yeddyurappa Leaves for Raj Bhavan
BS Yeddyurappa is making his way to the Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru, where he would be sworn-in as the chief minister at 9 am.
Union Ministers JP Nadda, Dharmendra Pradhan and Prakash Javadekar will attend the ceremony.
Meanwhile, BJP workers chant slogans of 'Vande Mataram’ and ‘Modi, Modi' outside Raj Bhavan.
SC Refuses to Stay Yeddyurappa Swearing-in
In a huge relief for Yeddyurappa, the Supreme Court in the pre-dawn hours of Thursday, 17 May, said it was not in favour of deferring the BJP leader’s swearing-in as Karnataka chief minister, even as the Congress and the JD (S) continued their past-midnight legal push to stall the government formation in the state.
"As far as swearing-in is concerned, we are not restraining it, but we are making it subject to the outcome of the case," a three-judge bench, comprising justices AK Sikri, SA Bobde and Ashok Bhushan, said in a rare past-midnight hearing that continued till the wee hours of Thursday.
However, before the bench was to dictate the order, senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi pleaded that the bench not dictate the final order and sought to argue the matter further.
The matter will be taken up again on Friday, 18 May at 10:30 am. The bench has asked the government to produce the letter submitted by Yeddyurappa to Vajubhai Vala at the hearing. Notices have been issued to all respondents.
Congress-JD(S) Alliance File Petition Against Yeddyurappa Swearing In
The alliance filed a petition before the Supreme Court Registrar to challenge the swearing in of Yeddyurappa as well as the 15 days that have been granted to the latter in order to prove his majority. Post the filing of the petition, the Registrar is supposed to meet the CJI Dipak Misra, who is the only one with the power to constitute a bench to take a decision.
Congress-JD(S) MLAs Move to Eagleton Resort
Congress and JD(S) MLAs have been moved to the Eagleton resort in Bengaluru. 120 rooms have reportedly been booked for the MLAs. JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy and senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad are among those stationed at the resort.
Karnataka Governor Invites BS Yeddyurappa to Form Government
Confirming earlier reports, the BJP announced that Yeddyurappa had been invited by Vajubhai Vala to take oath as the chief minister of Karnataka on 17 May at 9:30 am. The time has now been revised to 9 am and the ceremony is scheduled to be held at the Raj Bhavan Glass House in Bengaluru.
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