Criticizing Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot for not reading the Cabinet-prepared speech at the Karnataka Legislature joint session, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah accused the Governor of violating the Constitution. Siddaramaiah emphasized that the Governor’s actions insulted legislators, stating that discussions would be held on potentially approaching the Supreme Court regarding the matter.
Siddaramaiah highlighted the constitutional obligation for the Governor to deliver the joint session address at the start of the year or when a new government is formed. He pointed out that as per Indian Constitution Articles 176 and 163, the Governor is mandated to read the speech prepared by the government’s Cabinet, not his own. By deviating from this and delivering a brief personal address instead, the Governor, according to Siddaramaiah, acted against the Constitution.
The Chief Minister stressed that the Governor’s actions were a clear violation of the Constitution and a disrespect to the House of representatives. He expressed plans for widespread protests across the state by the government, party members, MLAs, and MLCs. Siddaramaiah accused the Governor of being influenced by the Central government, alleging that the Governor’s actions were an attempt to divert attention from the government’s failures.
Siddaramaiah mentioned that the Cabinet-prepared speech had been distributed to all legislators and announced intentions to address the media further on the issue. He also indicated that a decision would be made on whether to approach the Supreme Court and mentioned discussions with ministers about proposing a condemnation resolution in the House against the Governor’s conduct.
