In a dramatic turn of events in Bengaluru, Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot refused to read the traditional address prepared by the Congress-led state government during the joint session of the legislature on Thursday. Limiting his speech to just a few lines, the Governor abruptly concluded with ‘Jai Hind’ and ‘Jai Karnataka,’ leaving lawmakers stunned and triggering widespread pandemonium in the assembly premises.
This unprecedented refusal has intensified the ongoing friction between Raj Bhavan and the Siddaramaiah administration, raising serious questions about constitutional norms. As the Governor stepped down from the Speaker’s podium, Congress MLAs erupted in protests, shouting slogans against him. BJP legislators countered by cheering the Governor and chanting ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai.’
Tensions peaked when Congress MLAs and MLCs, including B.K. Hariprasad, tried to block the Governor’s exit, demanding he deliver the full government-scripted speech. Marshals had to intervene to clear a path, with Hariprasad resisting, leading to chaotic scenes in the house.
Earlier speculations suggested the Governor might skip the session altogether, but he arrived on time, welcomed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah with a bouquet. Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader and Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti were also present.
Reacting sharply, CM Siddaramaiah condemned the Governor’s action as a blatant violation of constitutional propriety under Articles 176 and 163, which mandate the Governor to act on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers. ‘This is not just politics; it’s an assault on democratic institutions,’ he declared, hinting at approaching the Supreme Court.
Law Minister H.K. Patil had earlier warned that skipping the prepared speech would betray the Constitution. The Governor had previously objected to 11 paragraphs in the draft, criticizing central government policies on Viksit Bharat, employment, and livelihoods. A delegation led by the Law Minister met him on Wednesday, but no resolution was reached.
This standoff signals a deepening constitutional crisis in Karnataka, with potential ramifications for the state’s political landscape in the coming days.
