Karnataka Governor Walks Out After 2-Line Address, Sparks Constitutional Row
Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot walked out of a joint legislature session on Monday after reading just two lines of his customary address, triggering a major political confrontation. The ruling Congress condemned the move as a “murder of democracy” and a constitutional violation.
Key Takeaways
- Governor Gehlot delivered only a two-line address before exiting the House.
- Chief Minister Siddaramaiah called it a direct “violation of the Constitution.”
- The incident follows protests by Congress MLAs over central funds.
- This is the second consecutive year the Governor’s address has been disrupted.
How the Unprecedented Walkout Unfolded
As Governor Gehlot began his address, Congress members raised slogans protesting the Centre’s stance on the devolution of funds to Karnataka. In response, the Governor read only two lines: “I am addressing this joint session of both the Houses. I am happy to note that the government is implementing the guarantee schemes.” He then left the Assembly.
Speaker U T Khader subsequently took charge, stating the truncated address was deemed laid on the table of the House.
Government’s Strong Condemnation
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was unequivocal in his criticism. “The Governor has to address the joint session. He has to read the entire speech. He has not read the entire speech. He has violated the Constitution,” he told reporters. He emphasized that the address, prepared by the state government, is a vital policy statement and announced the government would decide its next steps.
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar termed the action “unfortunate,” stating, “We have high respect for the Governor. But what happened today is unfortunate… He has to read the entire speech.”
Opposition’s Counter-Allegation
Leader of Opposition R Ashoka (BJP) blamed the Congress for the disruption. “The Congress members insulted the Governor. They raised slogans when he was about to speak… The Congress has no respect for the Constitution,” Ashoka said. Following the exchange, BJP members staged a walkout from the Assembly.
A Recurring Controversy
This marks the second year the Governor’s address has been disrupted in Karnataka. In 2023, when the BJP was in power, Congress members had similarly protested during the address, highlighting a continuing trend of political tension during this constitutional ceremony.
