Karnataka CM D.K. Shivakumar Addresses Resignation Threats from Dissatisfied Legislators
Shivakumar's Firm Stance on Resignation Threats
Bengaluru, August 4 - Karnataka's Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has taken a strong stance in response to threats of resignation from disgruntled legislators who were unhappy about not being included in the cabinet expansion. On Tuesday, he emphasized the importance of the party, stating that if anyone chooses to resign, their resignation would be accepted within minutes. He urged the dissatisfied legislators to remain patient and wait for opportunities, assuring them that positions in government boards and corporations would soon be filled.
In response to inquiries about the resignation threats, Shivakumar remarked, “I have said what I needed to say... Resignations are a common occurrence in politics.” He added that no one can prevent those who wish to resign. “If they value the party and their future, the party is essential. If the party exists, everything else follows,” he stated.
Shivakumar also reflected on his own experiences, mentioning that he could have resigned when he was not appointed as a minister during the tenures of leaders like Dharam Singh and Siddaramaiah. “Didn’t I and Deputy Chief Minister Parameshwara show patience? When Veerendra Patil was the Chief Minister, neither Bangarappa nor Kharge (AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge) were made ministers. Did Bangarappa and Singh not later become Chief Ministers?” he questioned, emphasizing the need for patience.
He reiterated that the party holds more significance than any individual, stating, “If someone resigns, I will accept it within minutes.” He assured that changes in government boards and corporations would be made soon. Shivakumar mentioned that those party leaders and legislators who were previously appointed to boards and corporations were informed that their terms would last two and a half years, and that there had already been delays.
“I will first ask my workers to resign from these positions and then fill them anew, after which I will speak to each legislator individually,” he added. Just two months after taking office, Shivakumar expanded his cabinet on Monday, adding 19 new ministers. Several Congress legislators expressed their dissatisfaction over not being included in the cabinet and offered to resign.
Additionally, Independent MLA Yashavantraigouda V. Patil resigned from his legislative position on Monday. Supporters of various ministerial aspirants have staged protests in different parts of the state.