'Humiliated': Minister quits Shivakumar cabinet 2 days after oath
What's the story
Karnataka Minister R Ramalinga Reddy has resigned from the cabinet just two days after taking oath. The senior Congress leader was reportedly unhappy with the portfolio he was given. He said he had been promised the Bengaluru Development portfolio back in 2023 once DK Shivakumar became the CM after two and a half years but was instead allocated the irrigation ministry.
Resignation reasons
'I have been humiliated time and again'
He said Shivakumar had even visited him at his house and said "once I become CM, I'll let go of this ministry and you can take it." He was assured again the Bengaluru Development portfolio would be allocated to him a day before the swearing-in but now Shivakumar has taken a u-turn. Reddy expressed his disappointment over the issue, saying, "I have been humiliated time and again, cannot take it anymore."
Political developments
'Will not accept any ministry now'
After signing his resignation, he told reporters, "Twice they said Bengaluru would be given to me. Now I am disappointed. Hence, I am resigning as minister." He further announced that he would not accept any ministry, even if he were offered one of his choices now. "Even if they give me the Bangalore portfolio now, I won't accept it. I will work as an MLA and will be with Congress," Reddy said.
Career overview
Reddy's political career
However, Reddy clarified that he would remain a Congress MLA. Reddy further stated that he would not personally submit his resignation letter but would send it to the Chief Minister's Principal Secretary via a supporter. Reddy is a prominent political figure in Bengaluru, having served as an MLA eight times from the BTM Layout constituency. He has also held positions as Minister of Transport, Muzrai, and Home Affairs in Karnataka.
Portfolio
Who was allotted the portfolio?
While Shivakumar has kept the Finance portfolio, he has given up his prior position at the Bengaluru Development Department. The influential portfolio has now been allotted to senior Vokkaliga leader Krishna Byre Gowda. The Bengaluru Development portfolio is widely considered as one of the most prestigious and politically crucial departments in the Karnataka government, responsible for planning and infrastructure in the state capital.