Karntaka Governor Skips Speech Critical of Centre

Bengaluru: What was expected to be a detailed address by Karntaka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot at the start of the joint session of the Karnataka Legislature on Thursday ended abruptly in about 38 seconds. Notably, the Governor read out a brief address of his own instead of the speech prepared by the state Cabinet.

The Governor took exception to references in the draft speech to the repeal of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act and its replacement with the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission (VB-GRAM-G), as well as concerns raised over threats to decentralisation by the BJP-led Union government. The address prepared by the state government comprised 122 paragraphs and the objection was by and large over 10 of them. The Congress government in Karnataka wanted the governor to read these 10 paragraphs critical of Central policies.

In his address, the Governor said, “I welcome you all to the joint session of the Legislature,” and expressed happiness at getting another opportunity to address the House. He stated that his government was committed to improving the socio-economic status of the people and then concluded his speech.

After concluding his brief address, the Governor left the House amid protests. Ruling party MLCs attempted to block his exit, while Congress legislators raised slogans. Surrounded by marshals, the Governor made his way out, followed by the Chief Minister.

Law and parliamentary affairs minister H.K. Patil termed the Governor’s action a “black day” in the history of democracy, alleging that the constitutional head had violated the Constitution by refusing to read the government-prepared address. He accused the Governor of failing to discharge his constitutional duties.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said the government was examining the option of approaching the Supreme Court and announced plans to stage a protest against the Governor’s conduct. Congress MLC B.K. Hariprasad cited Article 176(1) of the Constitution, which mandates that the Governor address the Legislature as per the Cabinet-approved speech.

Amid criticism from Congress legislators, state BJP president B.Y. Vijayendra demanded an apology from the Chief Minister for allegedly insulting the Governor and undermining Constitutional values.

It may be recalled that on Wednesday, the Governor had objected to portions of the Cabinet-prepared address, terming it “unacceptable,” and conveyed his decision to the Chief Secretary that he would not read the address as drafted by the government.