Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot on Friday accepted the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and dissolved the Council of Ministers headed by him with immediate effect, paving the way for the formation of a new Congress-led government in the state.
According to an official notification issued from Raj Bhavan, Siddaramaiah will continue as caretaker Chief Minister until alternative arrangements are made.
The Governor, exercising powers under Article 164(1) of the Constitution, stated that Siddaramaiah’s resignation had been accepted and the Council of Ministers stood dissolved. In a separate communication, the Governor requested Siddaramaiah to continue as caretaker Chief Minister and refrain from taking major executive decisions during the interim period.
The resignation came a day after Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation letter following directions from the Congress high command. In his brief letter to the Governor, he wrote: “I hereby tender my resignation as the Chief Minister of Karnataka. Kindly accept it.”
Speaking to reporters after submitting his resignation on Thursday, Siddaramaiah said he had fulfilled his commitment to the party leadership.
“I have always maintained, both inside and outside the Assembly, that whenever the high command directs me, I will tender my resignation. Two days ago, the high command asked me to step down and, keeping my word, I have submitted my resignation,” he said.
Visibly emotional during the interaction, Siddaramaiah expressed confidence that the Governor would complete the formalities upon returning to Bengaluru. The Governor had reportedly travelled out of the city due to a family medical emergency, leading to speculation over the timing of the resignation process.
(With agency inputs)
