Karnataka Congress Faces Turmoil as Minister Resigns Over Department Allocation

In a surprising turn of events, Ramalinga Reddy has resigned from his ministerial position in Karnataka just a day after the new cabinet was formed. His dissatisfaction with the department allocation has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about the internal dynamics of the Congress party. Reddy, who has a long political history, remains committed to serving as an MLA. This resignation could have significant implications for the power balance within the Karnataka Congress, especially concerning Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. The situation is evolving, and the party leadership is expected to keep a close watch on the developments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 5, 2026, 10:46 IST

Political Turmoil in Karnataka Congress

A significant rift has emerged within the Congress government in Karnataka just 24 hours after the formation of the new cabinet and the allocation of departments. Senior leader and newly appointed minister Ramalinga Reddy resigned from his ministerial position on Friday due to dissatisfaction with the department he was assigned. Despite his resignation, Reddy has confirmed that he will remain a member of the Congress party and continue to serve as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). During a press conference, he stated that he holds no personal grievances against anyone.

Reddy expressed that he was promised the Bengaluru Urban Development (GBA) department when Siddaramaiah became Chief Minister. He recalled, "At that time, I mentioned that I did not want a ministerial position. However, Shivakumar visited my home and assured me that this department would be mine whenever he became Chief Minister."

Department Allocation Controversy

Details on Department Allocation

At 72 years old, Reddy was appointed as the Minister for Water Resources on Thursday, but he had his sights set on the Bengaluru Urban Development (GBA) department, which was allocated to Krishna Byre Gowda. Reddy has served as an MLA eight times and has previously held positions such as Home Minister and Minister for Transport and Hindu Religious Endowments in Siddaramaiah's government.

Currently, he represents the BTM Layout constituency, a seat he retained in the 2023 Karnataka elections, securing 68,557 votes or 50.70 percent, defeating BJP candidate K.R. Shridhar, who received 59,335 votes or 43.88 percent. The implications of Reddy's resignation on the power dynamics between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar remain to be seen.

Reddy is considered a close ally of Siddaramaiah and has previously served as the state's Home Minister from September 2017 to May 2018, as well as the Transport Minister from May 2013 to 2017 and again from May 2023.

Reddy's desire for the Bengaluru Urban Development department stems from a personal assurance he claims Shivakumar made to him. However, a senior leader resigning over department allocations can impact the Chief Minister's credibility.

This resignation also highlights Siddaramaiah's strong influence within the Karnataka Congress and his ongoing ability to negotiate within the state cabinet. Notably, Siddaramaiah was offered a Rajya Sabha seat but declined, stating his commitment to serving as an MLA in Karnataka.

Furthermore, Reddy's resignation may pave the way for other Congress leaders, particularly those loyal to Siddaramaiah, who are dissatisfied with the department allocations, to voice their demands more assertively. Consequently, the Congress leadership will be closely monitoring Reddy's actions.