Upset over portfolio allocation in the state, Karnataka Minister Ramalinga Reddy resigned from his position on Friday. However, Reddy said he would continue to remain in Congress and will work as a member of legislative assembly (MLA) in the House.
Speaking at a press conference a day after portfolio allocation in the state, Reddy further said he is not "angry with anyone" and he has sent his resignation to Chief Minister DK Shivakumar's principal secretary through a colleague.
Reddy claimed he was guaranteed a Bengaluru Urban Development (GBA) department when Siddaramaiah became the chief minister. "Back then, I said I don't want a ministerial berth. But Shivakumar had visited my residence and told me that whenever he goes on to become the chief minister, this department would be given to me," he said.
Allocation of portfolios in Karnataka
72-year-old Reddy was made the Water Resources minister on Thursday, but he wanted the Bengaluru Urban Development (GBA) department, which was given to Krishna Byre Gowda. Reddy is an eight-time MLA and has previously served as home minister, and transport and Hindu religious endowment minister in Siddaramaiah's government.
At present, he represents the BTM Layout constituency, a seat which he retained in the 2023 Karnataka elections. Back then, he received 68,557 or 50.70 per cent votes to defeat Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate KR Sridhara, who secured 59,335 or 43.88 per cent votes, as per the Election Commission of India (ECI).
How his exit could reshape Siddaramaiah-Shivakumar power equation
Reddy is known for his closeness to Siddaramaiah and has also served as the state's home minister from September 2017 to May 2018. Before this, he was the transport minister of Karnataka from May 2013 to 2017, and also from May 2023.
Reddy wanted the Bengaluru Urban Development department for himself and has claimed that he was personally assured by Shivakumar that he would be given this position. However, if a senior leader resigns from his position, expressing disappointment with the portfolio allocation, it dents the chief minister's credibility.
Reddy's resignation further shows that Siddaramaiah still has a hold in Karnataka Congress, and he still has bargain power in the state cabinet. It is worth mentioning that Siddaramaiah was offered a Rajya Sabha position, but he declined, saying he wants to continue serving in Karnataka as an MLA.
Additionally, Reddy's resignation could pave the way for other Congress leaders, particularly Siddaramaiah loyalists, who are disappointment with portfolio allocation, and could make them more vocal about their demands. Thus, the Congress top brass would be keeping an eye on Reddy's move.
ALSO READ - BK Hariprasad becomes Karnataka Congress chief: How his history of foul remarks may sink 'DKS masterstroke'
