Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot sparked walked out of the Assembly after a brief appearance on Thursday — sparking outrage and calls for punitive action. The top official concluded his customary address to the joint session of the state legislature after reading just two lines. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has since dubbed his behaviour a violation of the Indian constitution and indicated plans to lead protests. He also broached the possibility of the Congress government approaching the Supreme Court over the matter.
The Governor had begun by saying that he was pleased to address the joint session on Thursday — before concluding in the same breath. Congress members had expressed strong displeasure over the Governor curtailing his speech, and raised “Shame Shame” slogans on the floor of the House.
“My government is committed to doubling the economic, social and physical development of the state. Jai Hind, Jai Karnataka,” he read in Hindi.
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Government vs Governor in Karnataka
Gehlot had refused to deliver the address on Wednesday — leading to a stalemate over the fate of the customary speech that outlines the government’s policies. It is understood that around 11 paragraphs within the government prepared speech had irked the Governor. The text had reportedly made critical reference sto the central government and its policies, touching upon the “repeal” of MGNREGA and issues including devolution of funds. The Governor had wanted this text deleted from the speech.
“Every new year the Governor has to address the joint session of Assembly, had the speech prepared by the Cabinet. This is a constitutional requirement. Today, instead of reading the speech prepared by the Cabinet, the Governor read the one he himself prepared. This is in violation of the Constitution of India. It violates Articles 176 and 163 of the Indian Constitution. He has not discharged his duties as per the Constitution,” said Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
Karnataka govt to approach Supreme Court?
Multiple Ministers within the Karnataka government told the media that it was now contemplating legal options.
“We are going to protest against the attitude of the Governor. We are examining whether or not to approach the Supreme Court,” the CM reiterated.
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“Today is a black day in the history of democracy. A governor who is supposed to be the guardian of the Constitution has failed to do his duty. He is liable to address the joint session of the Assembly. He has insulted the Constitution. We will take an appropriate decision,” said Karnataka Law Minister HK Patil.
“It is a sad day for democracy. Government will contemplate legal options,” added Karnataka Minister MC Sudhakar. |
