Karnataka CM Resolves Resignation Crisis with Senior Minister Ramalinga Reddy

Karnataka's Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has successfully resolved a resignation crisis involving senior minister Ramalinga Reddy, which posed a significant challenge to his newly formed government. Following a lengthy discussion, Shivakumar reassured that all misunderstandings have been cleared, emphasizing their long-standing friendship. The crisis arose when Reddy resigned over unmet assurances regarding the Bengaluru Development Department. This article delves into the details of the resolution and the implications for the Congress government in Karnataka.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2026, 14:08 IST

Crisis Resolved After Meeting

On Saturday, Karnataka's Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced that the resignation crisis initiated by senior minister Ramalinga Reddy has been resolved, marking the end of the first significant challenge faced by his newly formed government. Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar stated, “Ramalinga Reddy is my friend. All issues have been resolved. Please do not create fabricated stories. Those narratives are outdated. The resignation matter has been settled.” This statement followed a lengthy meeting with Reddy late Friday night, who had expressed dissatisfaction with the allocation of departments in the newly established Congress government.

Late-Night Discussions Lead to Resolution

In an effort to persuade Reddy to reconsider his decision, Shivakumar met with him for nearly two and a half hours at a private hotel on Friday night, under the guidance of Congress leadership. The discussions extended past midnight and included several senior Congress leaders and close associates of Reddy. Exiting the meeting around 1:30 AM on Saturday, Shivakumar expressed confidence that the issue was resolved, describing it as a family matter. He emphasized that they would sit together to discuss everything and that all misunderstandings had been addressed. He reassured that they would manage everything effectively and had provided opportunities to all senior leaders.

What Sparked the Resignation?

The crisis began on Friday when Reddy resigned from the major and medium irrigation ministry, alleging that assurances regarding the Bengaluru Development Department were not fulfilled. The eight-time legislator publicly stated that his sole interest lay in the Bengaluru Development Ministry. After signing his resignation letter in front of cameras, Reddy mentioned that he had been assured on two separate occasions that this department would be allocated to him. According to Reddy, Shivakumar had previously indicated that he would relinquish the Bengaluru Development Ministry after becoming Chief Minister, a promise that was reiterated just a day before the swearing-in ceremony.