Karnataka CM Warns Disgruntled MLAs: Resignations Will Be Accepted Swiftly

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar issued a stern warning to Congress legislators unhappy with the recent cabinet expansion, stating that their resignations would be swiftly accepted. The chief minister's remarks came after several lawmakers expressed displeasure and offered to resign after being overlooked for ministerial positions.

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Resignations are a part of politics. No one can stop those who want to resign. If they want the party and a political future, they should stay. If there is a party, everything else follows.

"Resignations are a part of politics. No one can stop those who want to resign," Shivakumar told reporters in Bengaluru. He stressed that party loyalty and a long-term political future should take precedence over immediate ministerial aspirations. Shivakumar drew a parallel to his own past experiences, recalling times he was denied a ministerial berth but remained patient, urging current disgruntled members to do the same.

The cabinet expansion, which saw 19 ministers inducted, left one position vacant. Among those expressing discontent were Indi MLA Yashvantharayagouda V Patil and Belur Gopalakrishna. Shivakumar's firm stance suggests a move to assert control and maintain party discipline amidst internal dissent.

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When I was denied a ministerial berth during the tenures of Dharam Singh and Siddaramaiah, I could have resigned too. Didn’t G Parameshwara (deputy CM) and I remain patient?... One needs to have patience.

To appease those still seeking positions, Shivakumar indicated that appointments to state-run boards and corporations would be made soon. He mentioned that previous appointees to these roles, whose tenures were meant to be 2.5 years, had already seen delays. He plans to first ask current officeholders to resign before filling these posts with other party members and legislators, offering an alternative path for political engagement.

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If anyone gives resignation, within a few minutes I’m going to accept.