Karnataka Election Result 2018 updates: On first day as CM, BSY shakes up top bureaucracy, rejigs police force

Congress playing dangerous politics, says Prakash Javadekar

“The Congress party is playing the politics of fear as they have kept their MLAs captive in a resort. Their mobile phones have been taken away from them and they are not even allowed to watch news or contact their families. They have been completely cut off from the world. This is not resort politics, this is a very dangerous form of politics,” BJP leader and Union minister Prakash Javadekar said. 

.@INCKarnataka अपने विधायको को बंधक बना के रखा है ,फोन ले लिए है न्यूज़ नही देखने दे रहे है यहां तक कि परिवार वालो से भी बात नही करने दे रहे " ये रिसोर्ट पोलिटिकस नही बल्कि डरावनी राजनीति है। pic.twitter.com/ayYcLVc31y

— Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) May 17, 2018

Congress confirms MLAs being shifted out of Karnataka, refuses to divulge details

Amid rising speculation that whether the Congress and JD(S) were planning to move their MLAs out of Karnataka, Congress leader Ramalinga Reddy confirmed that the MLAs indeed would be moved out of Bengaluru tonight. 

“We will be shifted today. We will tell you more details later. JD(S) MLAs are not coming along. The place has not been decided yet,” Reddy said.

Can prove majority tomorrow if given a chance, says Tejashwi Yadav

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Tejashwi Yadav, who has sharpened up the attack against the BJP in Bihar, told CNN-News18 that he was confident of proving a majority, if given a chance of floor test tomorrow. He said that several ruling parties’ MLAs were upset with the government and may vote for the Mahagathbandhan, while several others have already defected from BJP or JD(S) and joined the RJD. 

“I have got an appointment with the governor at 1 pm tomorrow and I’ll be going with Congress supporters as well. We will provide the letter of support to governor and stake a claim to form the government,” he said.

Governor of Goa made a mistake in 2017 which needs correction, says Congress

Goa Congress chief Chella Kumar, speaking to  ANI  said that in the Constitution similar rules were laid out for both Goa and Karnataka. “Though governor committed a mistake in 2017, she has the chance to rectify it now. We’re confident. Governor has given us time for 11.30 am tomorrow. I’ll go with MLAs to meet her and stake our claim to form government,” Kumar said.

Amid fears of poaching, horse trading, JD(S) supremo HD Deve Gowda dials up Rahul Gandhi

National president of JD(S) HD Deve Gowda had a telephonic conversation with Congress President Rahul Gandhi over the current political situation in the state of Karnataka,  ANI reported.

On first day as CM, BSY shakes up top bureaucracy, rejigs police force

The newly sworn-in Karnataka chief minister BS Yeddyurappa is busy reshuffling the state’s top bureaucracy, even as the Opposition Congress called him one-day CM.

Yeddyurappa appointed M Lakshminarayana, who was the additional chief secretary of public works department, as the additional chief secretary to the chief minister, while making his position equivalent to the additional chief secretary in the home department.

A  communique from Raj Bhavan appointed Prabhuling K Navadgi as the new Advocate General for the state of Karnataka in place of Madhusudan R Naik, who has resigned from the post.

Moreover, the top reshuffle included the transfers of senior police officers and the additional chief secretary to the chief minister. Bengaluru’s ADG (Railways) AK Pandey was posted as ADG (Intelligence). S Patil, DIG (Karnataka State Reserve Police) was posted as DIG (Intelligence). Bidar SP D Devaraja was posted as Deputy Commissioner, Bengaluru (Central Division). SP (ACB) Bengaluru S Girish was posted as Deputy Commissioner Bengaluru (NE Division), ANI reported.

Congress says decision on shifting MLAs outside Bengaluru not yet taken

“We are not leaving now. There is a meeting at 7.30 pm after that we will decide,” said ST Somashekhar of Congress on a question if party MLAs are being shifted from Eagleton Resort near Bengaluru to some other place.

Everything BJP did in Karnataka was by the rule book, claims Prakash Javadekar

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“Whatever BJP has done in Karnataka is in accordance with the rule book. Congress is ill informed and as a result is making these funny claims. They don’t have faith on their MLAs as they have held them captive in a resort. JD(S) and Congress are scared after being exposed,” Union minister Prakash Javadekar said.

The rise of Yeddyurappa as BJP’s mascot in south India 

The rise of Yeddyurappa, 75, to the top executive post from the ranks of being an ordinary activist in the right-wing Hindu organisation — Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has been anything but smooth, as controversies dogged him throughout his five-decade-old political career.

When fortune favoured him to become the Chief Minister for the first time in October 2007 in the BJP-Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) coalition government, he lasted in the post for over a month, as the regional party (JD-S) withdrew support, resulting in its fall in November 2007.

Yeddyurappa became Chief Minister for the second time after the BJP came to power for the first time in south India on its own in the May 2008 mid-term assembly election, riding on a sympathy wave over the JD-S betrayal.

Congress to knock on President’s door? DK Shivakumar says his party keeping all options open

Speaking to CNN-News18, DK Shivakumar said, “We will seek time from the President if need be. We have all the angles of this situation covered and we are exploring all options.”

On the issue of BSY withdrawing security from Eagleton Resort, Shivakumar said “We are not complaining about that. It is their responsibility but if they want we can give them security.” He, however, refused to disclose details of the party’s plan to move Congress MLAs out of Bengaluru.

Horse-trading not always monetary, writes BJP’s Tuhin Sinha

“In the same way as infidelity in a relationship is not always physical, horse-trading in politics is not always monetary… Theoretically, the BJP could offer the Deputy chief minister’s post to someone in the JD(S) who can break away from the party with a third of the MLAs, in addition to a central Ministry. The alternate possibility is that 8-9 Lingayat MLAs cutting across the Congress and the JD(S) could resign of their own volition and be rewarded later. Or in a worst case scenario, we might fail the floor test. In any case, democracy will still be the winner as the full process will be carried out,” Sinha writes .

Karnataka governor’s decision to invite BS Yeddyurappa to form government is correct: BJP’s Tuhin Sinha

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The Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala’s decision to invite BS Yeddyurappa to form the Karnataka government has raised a storm, what with the Congress moving the Supreme Court and calling it the murder of democracy, Sinha writes. 

“The precedents which really matter in the present situation are those of the successive Lok Sabha verdicts of 1989, 1991 and 1996.

In 1989, the Congress party was the single largest party with 192 seats, whereas a pre-poll alliance of JD-Left parties and the BJP was way ahead. The President invited the latter to form the government. In 1991, the Congress party secured 244 seats, well short of a majority. Yet, in the absence of a pre-poll alliance, it formed the government and relied on issue-based support from the Left and other parties,” he wrote in an article in  Firstpost

Congress, JD(S) will protect its MLAs, says HD Kumaraswamy 

Former Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy on Thursday said they will protect all the Congress and Janata Dal(Secular) (JDS) MLAs to prevent any poaching ahead of the trust vote in the Assembly.

“Congress and JD(S) will protect all their MLAs in Karnataka,” Kumaraswamy told the media in Bengaluru. Kumaraswamy said that the JD(S) will give security to its MLAs in the state. “We have to protect them and all 37 MLAs of the JD(S) are with me,” he said, adding that he was keeping an eye on the moves of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). 

Slamming Yeddyurappa, Kumaraswamy said: “He has ordered the transfer of four IPS officers. He has not proved majority in the house yet?” he asked. —IANS

Security removed from Eagleton Resort, Congress moving MLAs to Kochi 

Police forces stationed outside Eagleton Resort near Bengaluru have been removed, ANI reported. The Congress claims that MLAs had been lodged there to “provide security to the elected representatives.”

CNN-News18 reports that Congress is now moving the Congress and JD(S) MLAs to Kochi. 

Visuals from outside Eagleton Resort near Bengaluru where Congress MLAs are lodged. Police forces stationed outside the resort have been removed. #KarnatakaElections pic.twitter.com/31CEnxtcds

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

Congress-JD(S) move SC against Karnataka governor’s alleged move to nominate an Anglo-Indian member to the Karnataka Assembly

The Congress-JD(S) combine on Friday moved the Supreme Court against Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala’s alleged move to nominate an Anglo-Indian member to the Assembly, saying it should not be done till the floor test in the House.

The interim application, filed this afternoon, is likely to be heard on Friday along with the main petition of the combine on which the apex court in the wee hours today refused to stay the swearing-in of BS Yeddyurappa as the chief minister of the state.

In a fresh plea, the Congress-JD(S) has sought a direction that the nomination of the Anglo-Indian member by the governor, if done, should be set aside till Yeddyurappa undergoes the floor test in the House to prove majority. —PTI

If what BJP did in Karnataka is right, then they must accept what they did in Bihar was wrong: Tejashwi Yadav 

“Would like to know from the BJP and Bihar chief minister (Nitish Kumar) if the invitation to the single-largest party in Karnataka is right, or is insulting public’s mandate in Bihar by making post-poll alliance was right,” RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav asked. “If what they did in Karnataka is right, then they must accept what they did in Bihar was wrong,” he added. 

Yadav also said to CNN-News18 that if he gets the opportunity on Friday, RJD will clear the floor test. 

Amarinder Singh says Karnataka governor subverted Constitution by inviting BJP to form govt in state

Labelling Vala a ‘RSS Governor,’ Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh said democratic polity of India had been massacred to serve the desire and will of Vala’s political masters in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

“It was shocking the way the governor had given time to the BJP to break the Opposition and resort to horse-trading. (But) What else do you expect from an RSS governor,” he told the media. He described the entire episode as “unfortunate”, and said the developments in the last 24 hours were extremely dangerous for the country.

“We do not want India to become like Pakistan, where democracy is subverted by dictators and the army every step of the way,” he said.

CPM says Karnataka result proves Congress cannot counter BJP-RSS ‘politically, ideologically or organisationally’

Calling the Karnataka defeat “a big blow” to the Congress, the CPM has said that the electoral outcome showed the Congress inability to counter the BJP and RSS “politically, ideologically and organisationally”.

“Karnataka was the only state with a Congress government in the South (if Union territory Puducherry is discounted),” said an editorial in the CPM journal “People’s Democracy”.

BS Yeddyurappa withdraws security of Eagleton Resort hours after taking oath; Congress cries foul

According to Congress leaders, BS Yeddyurappa has ordered to withdraw security from outside Eagleton Resort near Bengaluru where Congress MLAs are lodged, hours after taking oath as chief minister. 

The Congress has opposed the move calling it cheap politics. “This is not the system. Irrespective of whose government it is, it is their duty to provide protection, provide security to the elected representatives,” KH Muniyappa of the Congress said. 

Meanwhile, CNN-News18 reported that the Congress is mulling to move its flock either to Left-ruled Kerala or Congress-ruled Punjab.

Meanwhile in Karnataka, BS Yeddyurappa visits Siddaganga Mutt and meets Sri Shivakumara Swami in Tumakuru

Karnataka CM BS Yeddyurappa visited Siddaganga Mutt and met Sri Shivakumara Swami in Tumakuru. pic.twitter.com/X2rQZkYTS5

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

Meghalaya Congress leader Mukul Sangma also seeks time with guv tomorrow 

Former Meghalaya CM Mukul Sangma has also sought time from the governor of the state for a meeting tomorrow. It is unclear whether the Raj Bhavan has granted him an appointment yet.

Now Okram Ibobi to meet governor in Manipur, will demand dismissal of coalition govt

Former Manipur chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh will meet Manipur governor on Friday and stake claim to re-form the government on the basis of single largest party theory propelled by the BJP. He was the third in line after Goa Congress and RJD in Bihar to do so since Thursday morning.  

BJP’s largest party theory triggers Domino effect as Opposition leaders in Bihar, Goa, Manipur stake claim

The BJP’s argument to justify its government in Karnataka seems to have triggered a domino effect in other parts of the country as well. Using the Karnataka incident. The latest in line was Manipur Congress leader Okrom Ibobi Singh, who like in Goa, was trumped by the BJP, which formed a post-poll alliance, despite emerging as the single largest party.  

Goa Congress is also going to meet the governor tomorrow with a similar claim, wheras Congress ally RJD is sharpening attack in Bihar simultaneously. Claiming that he had double the right to form government, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav confirmed that he will meet the governor in Bihar tomorrow and demand dismissal of Nitish Kumar government.

Police arrests Congress, JD(S) workers protesting in Mandya; RAF deployed

Congress and JD(S) workers held massive protests in Mandya district on Thursday after BS Yeddyurappa’s swearin-in. Former minister MS Atmananda was also seen among the large number of protestors. Following the unplanned protests, the police arrested the protestors in Mandya and Rapid Action Force was deployed to stop any untoward incident. 

Input by Deena D’Silva/101Reporters

BS Yeddyurappa addressing party workers after taking oath 

Opposition sharpens attack against BJP, Tejashwi Yadav appeals to regional parties to unite against BJP

Tejashwi Yadav has appealed to the leaders of non- NDA parties to rally up against the murder of democracy in Karnataka. He urged the NDA allies to part ways with ‘dictator’ BJP. Tejashwi also said that he is ready to take the fight to the roads of Bengaluru and protest in Karnataka. 

“Karnataka south me nahi balki bharat me hai. Hum to agar zarurat padi to jake Bengaluru ki sadko pe bhi dharna dene ko taiyar hain. Baat ye hai ya to Karnataka me jo BJP vale kiye hain vo galat hai ya jo Bihar me kiye the vo galath tha. Agar Karnataka sahi hai to fir Bihar sahi nahi ho sakta," Tejashwi said.

Will meet Governor tomorrow at 1 pm, confirms Tejashwi; says Nitish Kumar giovt should be dismissed

“Party has decided that we will meet the governor at 1 pm tomorrow and demand that like BJP, the single largest party in Karnataka, was called to form the government, similarly the current govt here be dissolved and the single largest party, RJD, be invited to form the governmeny,” Tejashwi said.

Tejashwi Yadav slams BJP, calls Amit Shah master of horse trading

“When all the MLAs are accounted for in the Assembly… When all Congress and JD(S) MLAs have signed in support of their leader, you tell me where will the BJP get remaining MLAs from. It is a clear case of horse trading and Amit Shah is master of this game. Otherwise what other magic or mathematical formula does the party hold and why are they so secretive about it,” Tejashwi asked.

By BJP’s rule book, RJD has doubly-enforced right on power in Bihar, says Tejashwi Yadav

“Looking at what happened in Karnataka, I want to ask when the people of Bihar mandated BJP to stay away from power, why did it take a backdoor entry to grab power,” Tejashwi asked. 

He said that by BJP’s own rule book, his own party has a doubly-enforced right on power because it was not only the single-largest party but also the majority pre-poll alliance.

AICC urges Congress workers to launch nation-wide dharnas to protest ‘murder of democracy’ in Karnataka 

All India Congress Committee General Secy Ashok Gehlot issues letter requesting all Pradesh Congress Committees, leaders & workers to organise state-wide dharnas at state capitals&dist HQs tomorrow to protest against K'taka Guv for inviting BS Yedurappa for making govt in K'taka. pic.twitter.com/5dCrttZZyp

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

Don’t need 15 days to prove majority, want to do it asap, says BS Yeddyurappa 

“I don’t need 15 days to prove my majority… I am keen to do it as soon as possible,” yeddyurappa told the party workers in Bengaluru. Yeddyurappa also appealed to the legislators to vote according to their “conscience” and uphold the people’s mandate.

BS Yeddyurappa thanks BJP leaders for support after swearing-in

BS Yeddyurappa addresssed the BJP workers after taking oath of office. He thanked all the BJP leaders and party workers for their support. He said he doesn’t need 15 days to prove majority. He also said that all those leaders who did not do well in the elections should not worry as he will ensure that their respect is maintained and that nobody will be sidelined.

PM Modi tweeted Karnataka governor destroying federal structure: Congress brings back old tweet, says we agree

We agree! pic.twitter.com/ypC6JKXOU8

— Congress (@INCIndia) May 17, 2018

Third MLA from Congress-JD(S) camp goes missing in Karnataka

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According to CNN-News18, now three Congress MLAs have gone missing from the Eagleton Resort, where they have all flocked up to prevent poaching. The news channel reported that the Conress MLAs were made to mark their attendance and a high-level meeting is underway to chart out the strategy. 

Meanwhile, an earlier report by NDTV had also claimed that while two Congress MLAs Anand Singh and Pratapgouda Patil had gone missing while a third Independent MLA was at flight risk.

BS Yeddyurappa at party’s Bengaluru office to address workers

Meanwhile, BS Yeddyurappa has reached the party’s Bengaluru office and he will address the party workers there. Speaking on the occasion party leader Ananth Kumar Hegde praised Yeddyurappa as a messiah of the farmers as he thanked the party cadres and national leadership for their support.

BS Yeddyurappa a lame-duck CM, says RS Surjewala

Speaking to the press, Congress spokesperson Surjewala said BS Yeddyurappa is a lame-duck CM whose reign will last only one day, half of which is already over. He said that the naked dance of politics orchestrated by the BJP will not succeed as he asked the media to wait and watch.

Congress addresses media in Delhi, says Vajubhai Vala compromised Constitution for BJP

“Vajubhai Vala had sacrificed his seat for Narendra Modi earlier. Yesterday, he sacrificed Constitution and democracy for him. He conducted 1st encounter of Constitution yesterday when he invited BJP to form govt. Today when he swore-in BS Yeddyurappa, he conducted its 2nd encounter,” RS Surjewala said.

Congress opens battle on all fronts: Goa like parade to happen in Bihar, Manipur and Meghalaya

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The governor’s decision to invite single-largest party to form a minority government in Karnataka has unravelled a political slugfest in several other states. Following the Karnataka precedent, single-largest parties in Bihar, Manipur, Meghalaya and Goa are demanding be given a shot at forming the government. 

Speaking to reporters, Tejashwi Yadav of the RJD said, “We would be holding a 1-day dharna tomorrow against the murder of democracy in Karnataka. We also request the Bihar Governor to dissolve the state government and like in Karnataka invite the single largest party, which in Bihar is the RJD,” Tejashwi Yadav said.

By symbolic parade of Goa MLAs, Congress also sending message to BJP allies in Parrikar’s absence

The Goa Congress is unlikely to achieve anything by parading its MLAs before governor one year after the Goa government formation. What the party instead seeks to achieve is to expose BJP’s so called double standards in dealing with Goa and Karanataka election results. It will also hope to send a message across to the BJP allies, who had gathered to support the saffron party under Manohar Parrikar’s leadership. But now, with Parrikar ailing and absent from field, the party will try to woo the Goa Forward Party and the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party to destabalise coallition BJP government.

Post BSY’s swearing-in, Goa Congress to parade MLAs before Raj Bhavan

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In an effort to corner BJP in its own game, the Goa Congress has now decided to belatedly parade its 16 MLAs before the Raj Bhavan to demand why a Karnataka-like process was not followed in Goa if the same is being used to prop up a minority BJP government in Karnataka. 

Congress Goa in-charge Chella Kumar will leave for Goa today and he with other party leaders will meet the governor tomorrow raising their demands.

Don’t want to discuss sub-judice matter: BS Yeddyurappa on Congress plea in SC

BS Yeddyurappa, when asked to comment on the Congress party’s plea in the Supreme Court against his swearing-in ceremony, remained tight-lipped. He said that a matter which is sub-judice shouldn’t be discussed. “I don’t want to comment on a matter that is in Supreme Court,” Yeddyurappa told reporters.

CM will definitely prove his majority in the House: BJP

BJP leader DS Veeraiah said that the chief minister will definitely prove his majority on the floor of the House.

Refusing to divulge details of BJP strategy, he said that the chief minister has called upon all legislators cutting across party lines to extend conscious vote during confidence motion. Veeraiah further said that officials in finance department have been asked to work out the amount and other modalities needed for waiving of loans.

Input by Ranganathan Krishnaswamy/101Reporters

Modi misused the office of governor in Karnataka: MK Stalin

All of us saw how PM Modi misused the office of Governor in Tamil Nadu. The same has been done in Karnataka. This is totally against democracy and rule of law. We condemn it: MK Stalin, DMK pic.twitter.com/FbSn1Aec3Z

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

Two Congress MLAs go missing, Congress fears poaching

Anand Singh and Pratap Gowda Patil are the Congress MLAs who are missing from the resort they were staying at.

Congress sources also told CNN-News18 that Anand Singh was close to BJP.

Yeddyurappa’s loan waiver googly may or may not hit the wicket

Shortly after taking oath, Karnataka chief minister BS Yeddyurappa announced a farm loan waiver that he said will benefit one lakh farmers in the southern state.

In Karnataka, where agriculture is one of the mainstays of the economy, the announcement would have appeased even Congress and JD(S) supporting farmers as the term ‘farm loan waiver’ carries an evergreen charm that none can contest.

Congress should have approached SC before results, if they were sincere about JD(S) alliance

Though the JD(S) and Congress claim to be on the job of securing their legislators, it appears some are “missing”. So what do they do? Midnight drama. Them approaching the Supreme Court could have waited till morning, or it should have been done on the 12 May itself. If they were really sincere about forming the government with JD(S), they could have filed a petition in the Supreme Court long before the results or on counting day, asking the court to clarify what is the preferred sequence of options a governor has to follow with respect to the single largest party, a pre-poll alliance or a post-poll combine.

The question was, since the post-poll alliance was considered as the option by two governors in the recent past, should it be taken as the prime precedent in case of a hung Assembly. It is a legitimate issue that merits clarification from the court. Such a move would have tied the governor’s hands. He would have had no option but to forward the issue to the president or wait for a Supreme Court clarification. The apex court has kept everyone’s hopes alive: the Congress’, JD(S)’, BJP’s.

Input from VV Padmanabha Sharma

Unless BJP buys loyalty of 12 MLAs, Yeddyurappa will have to choose between having a BJP speaker, or remaining a CM

In case Yeddyurappa has persuaded the MLAs and is desperate to have a BJP person as a speaker, he will have to show his hand – that is the persuaded MLAs will have to vote for his choice for speaker. But then, the Congress and JD(S) would know who the Judas’ are. What if they counter-“purchase” the trust even some of them before the floor test? Then Yeddyurappa has a problem.

Unless the BJP buys the “loyalty” and fealty of the 12 MLAs, Yeddyurappa will have to choose between a BJP speaker or himself remaining as chief minister. If the Congress and JD(S) were so intent on stopping Yeddyurappa from becoming chief minister, they should have better protected their MLAs from poaching by the BJP. That’s all. That would have ended the game on floor test day.

Input from VV Padmanabha Sharma

Yeddyurappa’s first test: Elect a Speaker

But we are becoming mired in conventions and traditions, aren’t we? The dilemma before Yeddyurappa in case BJP’s persuaders get 12 MLAs: The first test for him is the election of the speaker of the Assembly. He does not have the numbers, even if the governor, thought he did, strangely enough.

Input from VV Padmanabha Sharma

Can BS Yeddyurappa hold a one-man Cabinet meeting?

Meanwhile, Yeddyurappa waives farmers’ loans. How did he do that? He called a cabinet meeting. Who attended it? Only him. Why? Because there are no ministers. Is a quorum required? The secretariat manual does not talk of a quorum, but a tradition or convention is that majority of the ministers has to be present. (On 10 February, a cabinet meeting of Kerala to take some major decisions was not held because only six of the 19 ministers were present.)

What is the strength of the council of ministers in Karnataka? The Constitution (91st Amendment) Act, 2003, which limits the size of all ministries in India, stipulates that the strength of a council of ministers should not exceed 15 per cent of the total number of members in the Lok Sabha (in case of the central government) or the relevant state assembly. With 224 members, Karnataka should have 33.6 ministers. Assuming half of them are cabinet rank, there should be 15.

Input from VV Padmanabha Sharma

WATCH: BS Yeddyurappa takes oath as Karnataka chief minister at Raj Bhavan

All JD(S) legislators in Bengaluru, says party MLA

JD(S) legislator from Kolar, K Srinivasa Gowda said that all the party legislators were in Bengaluru. Asked whether they will be moved to Hyderabad, he said that he was not aware of any plans yet and that they would follow whatever Kumaranna (HD Kumaraswamy) says.

Input by Ranganathan Krishnaswamy/101Reporters

PIL filed in Karnataka HC against BJP forming govt in state

According to _ANI, a_dvocate NP Amrutesh file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Karnataka High Court against the BJP forming government in the state. The PIL stated the court should not allow defection of MLAs to BJP through resigning or cross voting.

Supreme Court should have directed to stop ‘resort politics’, not wasted midnight oil

At the end of it all, the Supreme Court did not have to waste midnight oil to hear this case since it did not order anything dramatic, allow Yeddyurappa to take oath and play havoc with the state’s economy from the word go as he has already done with farmers’ loans. It should have given a direction to stop “resort politics” and instead asked the legislators to be present in person at their respective party headquarters till the court settled the case. It simply did nothing.

 
Input from VV Padmanabha Sharma

Supreme Court will have to decide most important objective of governor’s action

The three options are: 1. single largest party 2. pre-poll alliance 3. post-poll alliance.

To rank the options, the Supreme Court will have to decide what is the most important objective of the governor’s action. Is it to install a grouping which the governor feels can muster support to pass the floor test? Or, is it to install a grouping which  has the majority to pass the floor test?

It is common sense that in the case of a hung Assembly, the prime objective of the governor is to ensure that the party/grouping he/she invites to form the government  has the requisite numbers to pass the floor test. In which case, the Supreme Court can only rank the three options in this order: 1. pre-poll alliance 2. post-poll alliance 3. president’s rule.

It will then be the end of the road for the single largest party. Which is fine in a hung house – conventions and laws need to change with time. How long can political parties use the single largest party-invite route to indulge in open horse trading? Should a governor officially encourage that?

Input from VV Padmanabha Sharma

SC can only clarify order of preference of options in case of hung Assembly 

What was the urgency for the Supreme Court to hear the case late at night if it never wanted to defer Yeddyurappa’s oath-taking ceremony? What will the Supreme Court do with a letter that claims he has 104 MLAs with him? Will it be satisfied that this number makes BJP the single largest party and so the governor is right? Or will it wonder why the governor did not pursue other options like a post-poll alliance of Congress and JD(S)?

Would such a question throw both the judiciary and the constitutional office of the governor into the vortex of a crisis? Or, to avoid that, will the Supreme Court simply dismiss Yeddyurappa from office and ask the governor to call the post-poll combination? That would lead to another constitutional crisis, surely. So, what can the Supreme Court do?

The Supreme Court, in my opinion, can only do one thing without disrespecting the Constitution: It should clarify the order of preference of the options before a governor in case of a hung Assembly. Which party/formation should the governor call first in such a situation? Otherwise, we will endlessly debate the nature of a “correct sequence” and whether inviting the single largest party amounts to following a convention because discretion would mean leaving that option till the very end.
 

Input from VV Padmanabha Sharma

List of chief ministers with shortest tenures

If BS Yeddyurappa doesn’t manage to retain power beyond the window offered, it could be the second time that the Lingayat strongman is forced to step down after an all-too-brief stint as chief minister. Back in November 2007, Yeddyurappa enjoyed a seven-day tenure as chief minister.

Here’s a list of chief ministers with the shortest tenures so far:

– Jagdambika Pal (Two days)

– Satish Prasad Singh (One week)

– Janaki Ramachandran (22 days)

– BS Yeddyurappa (Seven days)

Supreme Court’s decision to not defer Yeddyurappa’s swearing-in defies logic, adds to political suspense

What did the Supreme Court achieve by allowing Yeddyurappa to take oath as chief minister? There was no urgency. The tenure of the previous Assembly ends only on 28 May. The Supreme Court said the oath-taking and the formation of the government is subject to the final outcome of the case before it. Then why not defer oath-taking till Friday when the Supreme Court meets again to hear the case?

Obviously, the Supreme Court’s decision defies logic and adds to political suspense. By such actions, the apex court is opening itself to prospects of criticism (to put it mildly and kindly).

Input from VV Padmanabha Sharma

Congress arrogance such it won’t accept people’s mandate, says Ravi Shankar Prasad

“Congress’ arrogance is such that they won’t accept the people’s candidate even after losing in Karnataka. This is not democracy. But what else can you expect from Rahul Gandhi,” Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told CNN-News18.

WATCH: Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu says democracy safe and secure in India

#BREAKING #EXCLUSIVE | Democracy is in safe hands: Vice-President @MVenkaiahNaidu tells CNN-News18’s @DeepaSinghSays | #BattleForKarnataka pic.twitter.com/ehrbTP5WFX

— News18 (@CNNnews18) May 17, 2018

Democracy manipulated, mutilated and massacred in Karnataka, says Amarinder Singh

Democracy has been brazenly manipulated, mutilated and massacred in Karnataka. It does not augur well for the future of India. All eyes are now on the Supreme Court to come out in protection of the Constitutional ethos on which the very foundation of our nation rests.

— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) May 17, 2018

Congress to protest at Rajghat from 2.45 pm onwards in New Delhi

@BJP4Karnataka receives maximum share of voice on Twitter during campaign

As per a report by Twitter India, the official BJP Karnataka handle garnered 51 percent of the share of voice on the microblogging site. “Throughout the State Elections campaign, politicians and parties took to Twitter to regularly communicate with people all over India. Between the parties, it was a close fight in Karnataka as BJP (@BJP4Karnataka) garnered 51% of the share of voice on Twitter while Congress (@INCKarnataka) took 42%, and Janata Dal (Secular) had 7% of mentions,” said Twitter.  

The closely-fought #KarnatakaElections2018 also saw a close fight in the parties' share of conversation on Twitter, with @BJP4Karnataka gathering 51% of mentions against @INCKarnataka's 42% and the JD(S)' 7%. pic.twitter.com/vaxEwuajbt

— Government (@Gov) May 16, 2018

JD(S) MLAs arrive at Eagleton resort

WATCH: Whatever happens, democratic processes must be adhered to, says Ram Jethmalani

#WATCH Senior lawyer Ram Jethmalani speaks on Karnataka politics, says, 'What has BJP said to Guv, that he did such a stupid action? Order of Guv is open invitation to do corruption.' Jethmalani has approached SC against Karnataka Guv's invitation to Yeddyurappa for forming govt. pic.twitter.com/uLa0oXcPQZ

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

WATCH: Congress workers protest in Tumakuru against Yeddyurappa’s swearing-in

Input by KC Chandramouli

Meanwhile, #KarnatakaElections2018 mentioned 7.5 lakh on Twitter on 15 May

Here is a heat map how #KarnatakaElections2018 fared across the world. 

Congress shouldn’t have called JD(S) the B-team of BJP: Mayawati

Offering a word of advice for the Congress, BSP chief Mayawati said the party shouldn’t have called JD(S) BJP’s ‘B-team’ during the campaign in Karnataka, which ended up dividing the Muslim vote in the state.

Congress workers demonstrate in Bangarpet

Congress workers under the leadership of district Congress president K Chandra Reddy and block Congress president SA Parthasarsthy staged a half naked demonstration in front of teh post office in Bangarpet on Thursday morning. The protest was against the governor’s decision to invite BS Yeddyurappa to form the government. 

Input by Ranganath Krishnaswamy/101Reporters

Congress claiming moral victory, says Union minister Kiren Rijiju

Rejected by the people, denied by the Court yet Congress Party claims moral victory !!

— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) May 17, 2018

Yeddyurappa govt a short lived one, says Congress

Speaking to reporters, Congress leader DK Shivakumar said the BS Yeddyurappa government is a short lived one. “It is a short lived government. We are confident because we have the majority. We will fight for justice. All our MLAs are with us 100%,” he told ANI.

Senior congress leaders sitting in protest outside Vidhan Soudha

Image courtesy: KPCC

BJP conspiring to destroy Constitution, says Mayawati

Reacting to BS Yeddyurappa’s swearing-in, Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati slammed the BJP. “It is a conspiracy to destroy the Constitution, created by Baba Saheb Ambedkar. Since they (BJP) came to power they have been misusing government machinery, and thereby attacking democracy,” she said.

Vijay Goel aims barb at Rahul Gandhi, says Congress wanted to crush judiciary during Emergency

When SC does not act according to the whims & fancies of Congress, Rahul Gandhi starts attacking it & calls it murder of democracy. I guess he forgot the darkest chapter of EMERGENCY. INC itself wanted to crush judiciary with selfish motives as it has no faith in people's mandate

— Vijay Goel (@VijayGoelBJP) May 17, 2018

Independent MLAs are in touch with us, work will get done, says BJP’s B Sreeramulu

Independent MLAs hamare touch mein hain, kaam ho jaega: BJP MLA B. Sriramulu on being asked about proving majority in floor test #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/7p0h48oHg9

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

JD(S) MLAs may be shifted to Vizag or Hyderabad, reports CNN-News18

According to CNN-News18, both K Chandrasekhar Rao and Chandrababu Naidu have offered to “shelter” the JD(S) MLAs. 

Meanwhile, the Left offered a “safe-house” to Congress MLAs in Kerala. 

However, party leaders are refusing to comment on this.

All 118 Congress, JD(S) MLAs are here, says Siddaramaiah at protests outside Raj Bhavan

Karnataka governor’s decision to invite BJP to form govt is unconstitutional, abitrary, says DMK’s MK Stalin

The Karnataka Governor's hasty invitation to the BJP to form Government despite the majority of MLAs forming a post-poll alliance of INC-JD(S)-BSP is arbitrary & unconstitutional. Such a move will only serve to enable horse-trading and destroy our democratic foundations.

— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) May 17, 2018

Whatever the BJP is doing is unconstitutional: Siddaramaiah

#EXCLUSIVE -- #BattleForKarnataka: Whatever BJP is doing is unconstitutional. 100% sure we will form the govt: @siddaramaiah, Former Karnataka CM#LIVE UPDATES - https://t.co/IoKrCpKk9m pic.twitter.com/SAbRXRfm6d

— News18 (@CNNnews18) May 17, 2018

Under BJP rule, India is like Pakistan, says Rahul Gandhi

Addressing a rally in Chhattisgarh, Congress president Rahul Gandhi hit out at the BJP and RSS for creeping into all institutions. “RSS is making way into all institutions in the country,” he said. 

“We have seen judges come out in dissent. They sought public support because they were not allowed to do their job. We have seen the judiciary come out and seek public support in Pakistan and other African countries,” Gandhi further added.

Constitution being attacked today, says Rahul Gandhi in Chhattisgarh

Addressing a rally in Chhattisgarh, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said that the Constitution was being maligned and attacked. “Today, the Constitution is being attacked. In Karnataka, on one side there are MLAs standing, and on the other side there is the governor. JD(S) has said its MLAs have been offered Rs 100 crore each,” he said.

Ram Jethmalami requests urgent hearing against Karntaka governor

Senior lawyer Ram Jethmalani on Thursday mentioned before CJI Bench of Dipak Misra, Justice AM Khanwilkar and Justice DY Chandrachud his application for urgent hearing against the Karnataka governor Vajubhai Vala for inviting BS Yeddyurappa to form the government. The bench directed him to mention it on Friday before an appropriate bench, reported ANI.

Listen to your inner voice and then vote during trust vote: BS Yeddyurappa

Newly-sworn-in Chief Minister of Karnataka BS Yeddyurappa addressed the media today. One of the first decisions that Yeddyurappa took as part of the one-man Cabinet was to waive off farm loans for 1 lakh farmers. Addressing the media, Yeddyurappa said:

“I have accepted the position of the chief minister for the third time and I thank the populace of Karnataka for giving me the opportunity. I am hundred percent confident that I will prove majority. Those who wish that this BJP government shouldn’t work, I ask them to support us. 

During the course of the presidential election, Indira Gandhi didn’t have majority. She requested people to listen to their inner conscience. I’m fully confident that MLAs will ask their inner voice who this mandate was for and depending on that they will cast vote and chose sides. 

On this occasion, I would like to say one thing, till the trust vote is over I don’t want to talk about any issue for all the people of the state, party workers, leaders and especially Narendra Modi and Amit Shah — I am indebted and I express thanks to them. 

The moment I became the chief minister, I have decided to waive farm loans for 1 lakh farmers. And this is also for cooperative farm loans. I met with chief secretary Ratan Prabha and important points will be looked at. It will be finalised today or tomorrow morning. This is a promise I made to the farmer community and I am delivering on thart promise now.”

ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಮುಖ್ಯಮಂತ್ರಿಯಾಗಿ ರೈತರ ಹೆಸರಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಪ್ರಮಾಣವಚನ ಸ್ವೀಕರಿಸಿದ್ದೇನೆ. ನೀವು ನಮ್ಮ ಮೇಲೆ ವಿಶ್ವಾಸವಿಟ್ಟು ಮತ ಚಲಾಯಿಸಿದ್ದರಿಂದ ಇದು ಸಾಧ್ಯವಾಗಿದೆ. ರಾಜ್ಯವು ಪ್ರಗತಿಪಥದಲ್ಲಿ ಸಾಗಬೇಕೆಂಬ ನಿಮ್ಮ ಆಕಾಂಕ್ಷೆಯನ್ನು ನಿಜ ಮಾಡುವುದು ನಮ್ಮ ಹೊಣೆ. ಎಂದಿನಂತೆ ನಮ್ಮ ಜೊತೆಗಿರಿ. ನಿಮ್ಮ ಕನಸುಗಳನ್ನು ನನಸಾಗಿಸುತ್ತೇವೆ. ಧನ್ಯವಾದಗಳು. pic.twitter.com/js75wQpnsD

— B.S.Yediyurappa (@BSYBJP) May 17, 2018

Residents of BS Yeddyurappa’s native village Bukanakere in Mandya district, offer prayers and celebrate after the BJP leader was sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka for the third time

Residents of BS Yeddyurappa's native village Bukanakere in Mandya district, offer prayers & celebrate after the BJP leader was sworn in as Chief Minister of #Karnataka for the third time. pic.twitter.com/l1rs0ciS6l

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

BS Yeddyurappa tweets India map highlighting Karnataka as a saffron state

ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಪರವಾದ ಬಿಜೆಪಿಯ ಆಡಳಿತವು ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದಲ್ಲಿ ಆರಂಭವಾಗಿದೆ. ನಾಡಿನ ಸರ್ವಾಂಗೀಣ ಏಳಿಗೆಯನ್ನು ಗುರಿಯಾಗಿಟ್ಟಕೊಂಡು ಕಾರ್ಯೋನ್ಮುಖವಾಗಿದ್ದೇವೆ. @BJP4Karnataka @BJP4India pic.twitter.com/6NvIdjeAqn

— B.S.Yediyurappa (@BSYBJP) May 17, 2018

JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda at Vidhan Soudha

Ninety-year-old JD(S) supremo HD Deve Gowda joined the Congress-JD(S) protests at the Vidhan Soudha on Thursday. Sitting next to former party member and chief minister Siddaramaiah, the two leaders exchanged a few words.

Disappointing that swearing-in ceremony was not delayed: Salman Khurshid

“Midnight hearing is a very unusual thing. But after such a long hearing, the swearing-in ceremony should have been postponed. A midnight hearing proved the urgency,” said Congress leader and advocate Salman Khurshid. 

“It shows there is hypocrisy and there is virtually no respect for democracy,” he added.

RV Deshpande recommended for Protem Speaker

The legislature secretariat has recommended eight-time Congress MLA from Haliyal RV Deshpande as the Protem Speaker. A Protem Speaker’s role is is to administer oath all other elected MLAs in the Assembly.

BS Yeddyurappa announces Rs 1 lakh farm loan waiver

In a one-man Cabinet meeting, along with chief secretaries from various departments, newly inducted Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa announced a farm loan waiver of up to Rs 1 lakh, keeping in line his pre-poll promise.

BJP pressurising on Congress MLA or face consequences from ED, I-T dept

Congress MLC VS Ugrappa said that the BJP was putting pressure on one MLA. “Except one MLA, on whom BJP is putting pressure to join or else face actions from Enforcement Directorate, Income Tax and other agencies, nobody from Congress is going there.”

Input from Lakshmi Bagve/101Reporters

Lingayat gamble by Congress dealt serious blow to party, contributed to BJP’s votebank

​

Harish Ramaswamy, a political analyst and a professor at Karnataka University, had earlier said that the Congress should have weighed the consequences in absence of clear statistics with respect to Veerashaivas and Lingayats.

The Veerashaiva mutt heads too called the state government’s move a huge mistake as they were of the opinion that Veerashaivas and Lingayats were the same. They say Veerashaivism came first and Basavanna who came later did not establish a religion but rather worked for social reforms.

Apart from this, the state government’s decision was not taken well by the Muslims and other religious minorities as a large number of people were now likely to vie for benefits reserved for them.

What is the BJP’s strategy going ahead?

If the Government of Karnataka is now c/o Ballari, the Reddy brothers and associates will want to repeat Operation Kamala that they perfected as an art form in 2008. Then several Congress and JD(S) legislators were nudged to resign their seats bringing down the strength of the House for the Yeddyurappa regime to reach a lesser majority mark. Subsequently, seven of them contested the seats on the BJP ticket and five of them got re-elected. The entire deal was said to be orchestrated by the Reddy group, reinforcing their clout in ensuring the BJP government survived. 

The first option a decade later would be to do a 2.0 version of Operation Kamala. The numbers are six less than last time – 104 compared to 110 in 2008, making the job that much more difficult. What they need to do is to ensure 14 absentations in order to bring down the half mark to 104 so that the BJP crosses the line.

All MLAs present except Anand Singh

All MLAs are here except Anand Singh, he is in clutches of Narendra Modi: DK Suresh, Congress MP at Vidhan Soudha in #Bengaluru pic.twitter.com/2h8F3q0IKF

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

A humourous take on BS Yeddyurappa’s swearing-in

WATCH: ‘There was no hurry for matter to be listed at night in Supreme Court’, says senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi

#WATCH Mukul Rohatgi says,'There was no urgency according to me. The matter need not have been listed at night. SC has the power to undo if any wrong is done. Last night we didn't have all the papers, except the petition.' on Supreme Court overnight bench on #Karnataka situation pic.twitter.com/t7srL2SLtv

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

BJP planning to ‘purchase’ our MLAs, says JD(S)’ HD Kumaraswamy

Speaking to reporters, JD(S) state president HD Kumaraswamy said: “Our plan is to safeguard the MLAs. The BJP has already planned how they’ll purchase our MLAs. Amit Shah and Narendra Modi are ‘cleaning’ the country. People need to know of their attitude. Where is their (BJP) strength to prove majority? The governor has not taken the decision according to law. He has misused his office.” 

“I will request my father (HD Deve Gowda) to take the lead and talk to all regional parties and see how BJP is destroying democratic systems. We have to come together to protect interests of the country,” he added. 

Kumaraswamy further claimed that on Thursday morning, he received information about how the Centre was using central agencies to coerce MLAs. “Modi’s government is misusing the Constitution by misusing the power in Delhi,” he said.

‘Murder of democracy when Congress joined hands with JD(S)’: Amit Shah

Responding to Congress, JD(S) claims of BJP “murdering democracy”, party president Amit Shah wrote an acerbic tweet saying the murder of democracy took place when a ‘desperate’ Congress made an ‘opportunist’ offer to JD(S) for political gains, not for Karnataka’s development. 

President of the Congress obviously doesn’t remember the glorious history of his party.

The legacy of Mr. Rahul Gandhi’s Party is the horrific Emergency, blatant misuse of Article 356, subverting the courts, media and civil society.

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 17, 2018

Who has the people’s mandate in Karnataka?

The BJP, which has won 104 seats.

Or

Congress which dropped to 78 seats, whose own CM and Ministers lost by big margins.
JD(S) who won only 37 seats and lost their deposits on several others.

People are wise to realise.

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 17, 2018

The ‘Murder of Democracy’ happens the minute a desperate Congress made an ‘opportunist’ offer to the JD(S), not for Karnataka’s welfare but for their petty political gains. Shameful!

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 17, 2018

Visuals of BS Yeddyurappa at Vidhan Soudha

Bengaluru: #Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa reaches Vidhan Soudha. pic.twitter.com/cWaZSvAjFj

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

Yeddyurappa reaches Vidhan Soudha

Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa has reached the Vidhan Soudha after being sworn-in on Thursday morning.

BJP has no option but to indulge in horse trading, says Dinesh Gundu Rao

“There is no option left with the BJP, but to indulge in horse trading,” says former minister and KPCC working president, Dinesh Gundu Rao as suspense over Karnataka government formation continues with the Supreme Court posting the matter for hearing for Friday.

BJP supporters at Raj Bhavan

Input by Mahesh Bacham/101Reporters

Two Congress MLAs missing from Eagleton resort

Reports emerged that two Congress MLAs were missing from the Eagleton resort. However, MLA UT Khader dismissed these claims and said the two MLAs are on their way. “All MLAs are in contact. The two MLAs who are not present here right now will come. I also just came back from Mangaluru,” Khader told  ANI.

JD(S) MLA says governor’s decision gives opportunity for horse-trading

After BS Yeddyurappa’s was sworn-in as the chief minister, JD(S) Bidar South MLA Bandeppa Khashampur said, “Governor has given opportunity for horse trading, its unfair. Nobody has approached me until now from BJP. There is no question of anyone approaching me as they (BJP) know that I am close to Kumaraswamy and Deve Gowda.”

Input by Lakshmi Bagve/101Reporters

Congratulatory messages pour in for BS Yeddyurappa on Twitter

This included Tripura chief minister Biplab Deb Kumar and Union defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman. 

Heartiest congratulations to the son of the soil, Shri @BSYBJP ji on being sworn in as the Chief Minister of #Karnataka. Under #Yeddyurappa ji's astute leadership, Karnataka shall touch new heights of progress and development. @BJP4Karnataka #BJPWinsKarnataka #BSYNammaCM

— Biplab Kumar Deb (@BjpBiplab) May 17, 2018

Congratulations @BSYBJP . You worked hard, visiting each assembly constituency and patiently heard people speak of their aspirations. All the best wishes to you. @BJP4Karnataka @BJP4India

— Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) May 17, 2018

What is happening in Karnataka today is a rehearsal for what will happen after the Lok Sabha elections in Delhi.

— Yashwant Sinha (@YashwantSinha) May 17, 2018

JD(S) MLAs to stage protests at Vidhan Soudha at 10 am

As per official communication from the JD(S)’ Sadananda KC, party MLAs will go to the Vidhan Soudha and stage protest in front of the Gandhi Statue at 10 am.

WATCH: BJP supporters outside Raj Bhavan celebrate BS Yeddyurappa’s swearing-in 

Input by Mahesh Bacham/101Reporters

Heavy deployment of police near road leading to Raj Bhavan

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_Input b_y Mahesh Bacham/101Reporters

More visuals from Congress protests outside Vidhan Soudha

Senior Congress leaders Siddaramaiah, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Ashok Gehlot and KC Venugopal were seen during the dharna. 

Bengaluru: Congress holds protest at Mahatma Gandhi's statue in Vidhan Soudha, against BS Yeddyurappa's swearing in as CM of #Karnataka. GN Azad, Ashok Gehlot, Mallikarjun Kharge, KC Venugopal and Siddaramaiah present. pic.twitter.com/16BYIQfJ9D

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

WATCH: Congress party workers protesting against governor’s decision

Input by Archita Purani/101Reporters 

Congress workers at KPCC office preparing for protest

Input by Archita Puranik/101Reporters

Congress MLAs protest outside Vidhan Soudha

Congress MLAs and leaders, including Ghulam Nabi Azad, Ashok Gehlot and Siddaramaiah, gathered at Mahatma Gandhi’s statue in Vidhan Soudha to protest against BS Yeddyurappa’s swearing in as chief minister of Karnataka.

Bengaluru: Congress MLAs and leaders, including GN Azad, Ashok Gehlot and Siddaramaiah, gather at Mahatma Gandhi's statue in Vidhan Soudha to protest against BS Yeddyurappa's swearing in as CM of Karnataka. pic.twitter.com/lmWcrFUr30

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

‘Governor’s decision is hasty’: Congress MLC Vijay Singh

“Governor’s decision is a hasty decision. If Congress had got 104, he would not have called us he is now calling BJP. Governor is acting partial. RSS and BJP do not believe in democracy,” said Congress Bidar MLC Vijay Singh

Input from Lakshmi Bagve/101Reporters

Let Congress, JD(S) protest, they don’t have the mandate, says BJP’s B Sreeramulu

“Congress has no mandate in Karnataka. Let them (Congress and JDS) protest, they don’t have the mandate. Let them to what they want,” BJP MLA B Sreeramulu told reporters.

WATCH: Dancers and artistes celebrate outside Raj Bhavan

Input by Ayswarya Murthy/101Reporters

WATCH: Scenes of celebration outside Raj Bhavan

Input by Ayswarya Murthy/101Reporters

BJP has no respect for parliamentary democracy, says Siddaramaiah

Speaking to reporters after BS Yeddyurappa was administered his oath as the chief minister, former chief minister Siddaramaiah  said: “BJP has no respect for parliamentary democracy. If BS Yeddyurappa wants to prove majority, he has to present the list of 112 MLAs. Let him do that”

WATCH: BS Yeddyurappa taking oath as 23rd Karnataka chief minister

LIVE : Shri @BSYBJP takes oath as Karnataka CM. #BSYNammaCM https://t.co/ak9qvTyTkz

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 17, 2018

Karnataka has got ‘Yeddi, Reddy ki sarkar’: Sanjay Nirupam

So #Karnatka has got again Yeddi,Reddy Aur Chadhhi ki Sarkar. May be for a brief period.#YeddyCMTest

— Sanjay Nirupam (@sanjaynirupam) May 17, 2018

Congress MLAs leave Eagleton resort for to stage protests

Minutes after Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa was sworn-in, a few Congress MLAs left the Eagleton resort to hold dharnas, and protests outside the Vidhan Soudha. 

Bengaluru: Congress and JD(S) MLAs leave from Eagleton Resort, to hold protest outside Vidhana Soudha (Karnataka Assembly) pic.twitter.com/MI15CPdiNQ

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

‘Congress should protest against Rahul, Sonia, Siddaramaiah’

“If Congress wants to protest, they must protest against Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Siddaramaiah,” said Union minister Ananth Kumar after the Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa was sworn-in.

Narendra Modi, Amit Shah skip oath-taking ceremony

Both BJP president Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi skipped BS Yeddyurappa’s swearing-in ceremony at the Raj Bhavan on Thursday. However, Union ministers, JP Nadda, Dharmendra Pradhan and Ananth Kumar were seen in attendance.

BJP has murdered democracy, Yeddyurappa govt illegal, says JD(S)’ HD Revanna

Speaking to reporters outside the resort, JD(S) leader and HD Kumaraswamy’s elder brother HD Revanna called the BS Yeddyurappa government an illegal one.

“What has happened is, BJP has murdered democracy in broad daylight. This BS Yeddyurappa government is an illegal government. Yeddyurappa has taken oath but wait for two days, we know what is going to happen,” said JD(S) supremo’s elder son HD Revanna.

Visual of BS Yeddyurappa taking oath as chief minister

#Bengaluru: BJP's BS Yeddyurappa takes oath as the Chief Minister of Karnataka. pic.twitter.com/f33w4GZjrS

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

Police bar entrance to Raj Bhavan to anyone without passes

Input by Ayswarya Murthy/101Reporters

BS Yeddyurappa takes oath as chief minister

BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa took over the chief ministerial reins for the second time amid loud cheers. Governor Vajubhai Vala administered the oath.

Swearing-in ceremony begins

Traffic normal in Bengaluru

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Image courtesy: Mahesh Bacham/101Reporters

BS Yeddyurappa reaches Raj Bhavan

​

BJP chief ministerial face BS Yeddyurappa reached the Raj Bhavan on Thursday morning. The oath-taking ceremony will begin shortly. Governor Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala will administer the oath. 

#Karnataka: BS Yeddyurappa arrives at Raj Bhavan, to take oath as Karnataka Chief Minister shortly pic.twitter.com/IQLSPrGz2u

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

BS Yeddyurappa reaches Raj Bhavan

BS Yeddyurappa offers prayers at temple before swearing-in ceremony

Bengaluru: CM designate BS Yeddyurappa offered prayers at a temple before his swearing-in ceremony. #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/tHJNvnfXAv

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

BJP making a mockery of Constitution, says Rahul Gandhi

The BJP’s irrational insistence that it will form a Govt. in Karnataka, even though it clearly doesn’t have the numbers, is to make a mockery of our Constitution.

This morning, while the BJP celebrates its hollow victory, India will mourn the defeat of democracy.

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 17, 2018

WATCH: BJP workers chant slogans of ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Modi, Modi’ outside Raj Bhavan

#WATCH BJP workers chant slogans of 'Vande Mataram and Modi, Modi' outside Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru, as oath taking ceremony of BS Yeddyurappa as Karnataka CM to is set to begin shortly pic.twitter.com/npZthZbqZd

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

BJP poster congratulating and wishing him luck BS Yeddyurappa

Image courtesy: News18​ 

BS Yeddyurappa leaves for Raj Bhavan

Bengaluru: BS Yeddyurappa leaves for Raj Bhavan, to take oath as Karnataka Chief Minister shortly. pic.twitter.com/gfX5kXi698

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

Celebrations outside BS Yeddyurappa’s house

Celebrations begin outside BS Yeddyurappa’s house as he is set to take oath as the next chief minister of Karnataka in half an hour. 

Image courtesy: News18

Visuals from Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: Swearing-in ceremony of BS Yeddyurappa as the Chief Minister of Karnataka to begin shortly; Union Ministers JP Nadda, Dharmendra Pradhan and Prakash Javadekar present at Raj Bhavan #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/yV3BEj8wNL

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

Stage set for Yeddyurappa’s swearing-in

The stage is all set for the swearing-in ceremony of the next chief minister of Karnataka. According to News18, guests were seen arriving with bouquets and scores of them, including JP Nadda, have already occupying the chairs at Raj Bhavan. Hoardings congratulating BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa could also be spotted on the way to Raj Bhavan.

Like SC, people of India will reject Congress, says BJP

Good Morning Karnataka!

In a few hours from now, Sri @BSYBJP will be sworn in as Chief Minister as per your wishes.

While we will start a golden chapter in the history of Karnataka, the people of India, like the SC, will reject Congress's mercy petition.#DemoracyWins

— BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) May 16, 2018

HD Deve Gowda gets last laugh on Congress two decades after ignominious exit as PM

On the fateful night of 11 April, 1997, Haradanahalli Doddegowda Deve Gowda knew in matter of next few minutes he would suffer the ignominy of losing the vote of confidence on floor of Parliament and post of prime minister. The Congress pulled its support and was to vote against him.

But before that could happen he finished his concluding speech on the motion by saying “…and if it is my destiny to rise again from the dust, then I shall do so — for no one, not even the president of the Congress party can deny a man his due”.

Two decades later, an 85-year-old Deve Gowda now has all the reasons to cheer the remarks he made. For the past two days, Gowda has been sitting at home with Congress leaders of all hues, from Sonia Gandhi to mid-level state leaders pampering him with an irresistible offer: Accept Congress’ support to make his son HD Kumaraswamy chief minister of Karnataka.

Police deployed outside Eagleton Resort in Bengaluru

Police have been deployed outside Eagleton Resort on the Bengaluru-Mysuru Highway where newly-elected Congress MLAs are currently lodged to avoid any attempts of horse-trading, reported News18. However, this is not the first time this resort, owned by Congress leader DK Sivakumar, has played host to lawmakers under lockdown.

During the Gujarat Rajya Sabha election last year, the Congress had flown its Gujarat MLAs to the resort in Bengaluru to keep them under tight watch. Congress leader Ahmed Patel had eventually won the nail-biting election.

Image courtesy: News18

Congress cannot support JD(S) just to keep BJP out of power, says Sadananda Gowda

“We are the single largest party. People have refused Congress. They cannot support JD(S) just to keep BJP from power,” said former chief minister Sadananda Gowda to News18.

Visuals from outside Raj Bhavan ahead of BS Yeddyurappa’s swearing-in

#Karnataka: Visuals from outside Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru. BS Yeddyurappa to take oath as Karnataka chief minister at 9 am. pic.twitter.com/MpF2x5aNPT

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

16,000 policemen deployed across Bengaluru

Nearly 16,000 policemen hae been posted in the state capital to maintain law and order as all eyes are set on formation of government in Karnataka.

Congress, JD(S) workers to protest outside Raj Bhavan

Congress and JD(S) workers will protest outside the Raj Bhavan as BS Yedyyurappa is all set to take oath as the chief minister of Karnataka.

Why single largest party got governor’s nod over post-poll coalition

The decision for the governor is a complicated one. How does the governor make a choice? Well, the Constitution doesn’t explicitly speak of coalitions nor does it speak of a single largest party. The Constitution requires that the chief minister selected by the governor be one that is able to prove a majority in the House.

The decision as to who to call as chief minister lies with the governor, but the governor is required to exercise this discretion in order to invite the person who he is satisfied is most likely to form a government that can win a vote of confidence in the House. Which is why the governor invites the single largest party — as Vajubhai Vala did in the case of BJP in Karnataka — and in case of a coalition the leader of the coalition.

A look at how post-poll coalitions have upended single largest party in other Assembly elections

Media persons crowd outside Supreme Court early on Thursday

Outside the court, camera crews are still waiting for bytes of lawyers pic.twitter.com/rzAzZyNlUP

— Ananthakrishnan G (@axidentaljourno) May 17, 2018

Visuals from outside BS Yeddyurappa’s house in Bengaluru

The BJP legislative party leader, BS Yeddyurappa, is set to take oath as the chief minister of Karnataka at 9 am on Thursday after late-night drama at the Supreme Court. The apex court, on the Congress-JD(S) petition against the governor’s decision to invite BJP to form the government, refused to order a stay on the swearing in ceremony. 

#Karnataka: Visuals from outside BS Yeddyurappa's residence, in Bengaluru. He will take oath as Karnataka chief minister at 9 am today. pic.twitter.com/zBOvty7jK6

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

Despite short majority, BJP hungry for power, claim Congress and JD(S) in joint petition

In its petition challenging the governor’s decision to invite BJP to form the government despite not having the majority number of MLAs, the Congress and JD(S) said that in its hunger for power, the BJP used the governor’s office and got invited itself from the governor. According to  Bar and Bench , the petition stated:

– “The Governor, without affording an opportunity to the said coalition, has hastily proceeded to appoint Shri B.S. Yeddyurappa as the Chief Minister of Karnataka to pre-empt the coalition parties from forming the Government. It is submitted that the INC together with JD(S) etc. is in a position to form the Government and will demonstrate its majority on the floor of the House if given an opportunity.

– Despite the BJP being short of majority, in its hunger for power, by using the Office of Governor, has got itself invited from the Governor.”

Visual from outside Supreme Court during the late-night hearing on Congress-JD(S) petition

Media persons waiting outside the residence of Chief Justice of India (CJI), in New Delhi on Wednesday. 

Image courtesy: PTI

‘Governor’s letter mentions no number higher than 104 (MLAs),’ claims Chidambaram

Former finance minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram said that if he were Yeddyurappa, he would not take the oath till 10.30 am on Friday. “I salute the Supreme Court. If I were Mr Yeddyurappa, I will not take oath until the hearing at 10.30 am on Friday, 18th May,” he tweeted. 

Chidamabaram also claimed that Yeddyurappa’s letter to the government did not include any number at all. “Mr Yedyurappa’s letter to the Governor will seal his fate. There is no mention of a number bigger than 104. The Governor’s invitation does not mention any number at all!”

I salute the Supreme Court. If I were Mr Yeddyurappa, I will not take oath until the hearing at 10.30 am on Friday, 18th May.

— P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) May 17, 2018

Mr Yedyurappa's letter to the Governor will seal his fate. There is no mention of a number bigger than 104. The Governor's invitation does not mention any number at all!

— P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) May 17, 2018

‘Dictatorship is over,’ says BJP’s Sadananda Gowda

Though the power hungry JDS & Congress tried to stop the mass leader BSY from becoming CM, people of Karnataka held hand of BSY tight. Dictatorship is over now It’s the people’s government in Karnataka #BSYNammaCM

— Sadananda Gowda (@DVSadanandGowda) May 17, 2018

SC says question is of ‘injuction’ not ‘stay’

Arguing for the Congress-JD(S) faction, lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi challenged the Governor Vajubhai Vala’s decision to invite BJP to form the government and said, “Governor has immunity. You cannot call him or issue notice to him. But his actions can be subject to judicial review. I am challenging his decision though he cannot be made liable for the same.”

In response to it, Justice SA Bobde said, “The issue is can we injunct him? Of course his actions are subject to judicial review. Stay is of an order. But injunction is against a ‘person’. So can we injunct a person to whom we cannot issue notice?”

“If a one person party is made chief minister by governor, then that chief minister can be injuncted by the court from functioning,” Bobde said. 

"The issue is can we injunct him? Of course his actions are subject to judicial review", Justice SA Bobde.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Justice SA Bobde also says the question is of 'injunction' and not 'stay'.

"Stay is of an order. But injunction is against a 'person'. So can we injunct a person to whom we cannot issue notice"

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Grounds on which Congress-JD(S) challenged BJP in its primary petition

Some of the grounds on which the Congress-JD(S) coalition approached the Supreme Court are as follows, as per  Bar and Bench :

– “The impugned action/decision of the Hon’ble Governor dated  15.05.2018 in inviting B.S. Yeddyurappa, of Bharatiya Janata Party to be appointed as the Chief Minister of Karnataka and to form the Government by proving his majority within 15 days is unconstitutional, arbitrary and illegal and violative of Article 14.

– The decision of the Governor flies in the face of the well-established constitutional convention that the Governor is Constitutionally obliged to invite the party/alliance of parties which has ex-facie demonstrated to the Governor that the said party/alliance of parties enjoys the support of the majority of the Legislators.

– The post-poll alliance between the INC and the JD(S) has 116 seats, and 2 independent MLA’s have also offered support to the coalition of the JD(s) and INC and therefore legislators supporting the alliance is 118…It was therefore incumbent upon the Hon’ble Governor to invite the post-poll alliance of JD(s) and INC to form the Government and direct them to prove the majority in the floor of the house.”

Congress argues why BJP given 15 days for floor test

During the hearing before a three-bench judge at the Supreme Court, Congress counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi asked why has the BJP given 15 days to prove its majority in a floor test, stating that it is too long a time, and provides ample opportunity for horse-trading.

RECAP: Governor Vajubhai Vala invites BS Yeddyurappa to form government

His Excellency the Governor of Karnataka has invited Sri @BSYBJP to form the government.

Sri @BSYBJP will take oath tomorrow as Chief Minister of Karnataka at 9 AM at Raj Bhavan. #CMBSY pic.twitter.com/DCSIx3APSZ

— BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) May 16, 2018

SC issues notice to Yeddyurappa

The Supreme Court issued a notice to the Karnataka government and BS Yeddyurappa on Cong-JD(S) petition. The bench was of the view that since Yeddyurappa had not made his appearance through an advocate before it, a notice be issued to him.

Congress’ Abhishek Manu Singhvi says Yeddyurappa’s oath is ‘provisional’

Sc deserves immeasurable kudos 4sitting 3+ half hrs frm 2am. Patient hearing par excellence. Tho no stay bench made swearing fully subject 2further orders. In a sense BSY’s oath is provisional. SC can change interim order tomm after seeing docs. Preponement of fl test also open.

— Abhishek Singhvi (@DrAMSinghvi) May 17, 2018

SC asks Congress how can court decide without scrutinising Yeddyurappa’s letter to governor?

Supreme Court to Congress: “You want us to scrutinise the discretion of the governor but how do we decide this now? You don’t even have the letter given to the governor based on which he has called upon the other side to form the government.”

RECAP: Supreme Court hearing began 1.45 am

The apex court heard the arguments from both the Congress-JD(S) faction and the BJP. Around 5.30 am, the Supreme Court refused to stay BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa’s swearing-in ceremony on Thursday at 9 am. The Supreme Court has asked Attorney General KK Venugopal and attorney Mukul Rohatgi to produce the letter of 15 May, which BS Yeddyurappa had given to the Governor (Karnataka) Vajubhai Vala to prove the BJP has the numbers to form government.

“It is necessary to peruse letters dated 15th and 16th May between the Governor and BS Yeddyurappa. This Court isn’t staying in swearing-in but this will be subject to outcome of the petition,” the apex court said. 

"It is necessary to peruse letters dated 15th and 16th May between the #Governor and #BSYeddyurappa. This Court isn't staying in swearing in but this will be subject to outcome of the petition," says SC & fixes hearing tomorrow at 10.30 AM. @News18Courtroom https://t.co/9Iryo8IdZm

— Utkarsh Anand (@utkarsh_aanand) May 17, 2018

What’ll happen today:

– BS Yeddyurappa to be sworn-in as Karnataka chief minister at 9 am.

– Congress-JD(S) plea to be heard next at 10.30 am on Friday.

Next hearing on Congress-JD(S) plea at 10.30 am tomorrow, reports CNN-News18

WATCH: Supreme Court refuses a stay on Yeddyurappa’s swearing-in

#BREAKING -- BS Yeddyurappa's letter to Governor to be produced in Court on Friday

LIVE UPDATES: https://t.co/Pdau6swJRf pic.twitter.com/Jv3xV77R2l

— News18 (@CNNnews18) May 17, 2018

Supreme Court asks govt to produce Yeddyurappa’s letter to governor

The apex court has asked the government to produce the letter of 15 May, which BS Yeddyurappa had given to the Governor (Karnataka) Vajubhai Vala to prove the BJP has the numbers to form government, at 10:30 am on Friday, said the counsel for petitioners of Congress and JD(S).

Yeddyurappa swearing-in at 9 am

After the Supreme Court refused to stay BS Yeddyurappa’s oath-taking ceremony, the BJP’s chief ministerial candidate is set to be sworn-in at 9 am on Thursday.

No stay on BSY swearing in but the matter will be heard again Friday

The three-judge bench of Supreme Court refuses to stay swearing-in ceremony of BJP's BS Yeddyurappa as Karnataka Chief Minister, matter to be next heard at 10:30 am tomorrow (Friday) #KarnatakaElections pic.twitter.com/66oknlsHnF

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018

BREAKING: Supreme Court says produce letter written by BS Yeddyurappa on May 15, May 16 to Governor.

No stay on swearing-in. However, the same will be subject to outcome of case.

Court will hear matter again around noon on Friday.

As the sun rises on a new day, Supreme Court dictating order now in Congress-JDS petition against Karnataka Governor order. This is after nearly five hours of arguments in Court Number 6.  

In an all night legal challenge to the Karnataka Governor’s decision to invite BJP to form the next government, the Congress-JDS combine managed to convince a three judge Supreme Court bench to hear its petition claiming ‘clear majority’ in the just concluded Karnataka Assembly election. Starting shortly after 1:45 am, the hearing went on until half past 5 IST.

"What if the Governor invites a group of only 10 MLAs and keeps swearing in at 9 am. And Your Lordships say Governor cannot be injuncted", asks @DrAMSinghvi.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Rohatgi uses a Yakub Menon analogy to say why this petition should not have been heard so late in the night

"This was not a case which should have been heard now. In Yakub Memon's case the man was going to be hanged at 6 am. There is nothing like that here", Mukul Rohatgi.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Congress wants swearing in to be deferred to 4:30 pm

Abhishek Manu Singhvi says Court has power to defer swearing-in, so that the Court can go through the records/ letter of Yeddyurappa.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

What’s possible if a “one-person party” is made CM?

"If a one person party is made Chief Minister by Governor, then that Chief Minister can be injuncted by the Court from functioning", Justice SA Bobde.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

‘Injunction’ versus ‘stay’

Justice SA Bobde also says the question is of 'injunction' and not 'stay'.

"Stay is of an order. But injunction is against a 'person'. So can we injunct a person to whom we cannot issue notice"

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

A night without end as Congress fires on all cylinders

Powers & actions of Guv are protected by article 361 of the Constitution of India. And he is not answerable for his actions, constitutional demands. It has never happened in this country that a swearing-in ceremony deferred on absurd arguments: BJP lawyer to @TanushreePande pic.twitter.com/BCDuvgypPN

— News18 (@CNNnews18) May 16, 2018

I am challenging the Governor’s decision: Singhvi

"Governor has immunity. You cannot call him or issue notice to him. But his actions can be subject to judicial review. I am challenging his decision though he cannot be made liable for the same", Abhishek Manu Singhvi.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Defer swearing in till eveing, says Singhvi

Singhvi says defer swearing-in till 4.30 pm.

"If Yeddyurappa comes with the records/letter and the Court finds there is no merit in my case, I am out.

Else I am in.

But once he is sworn in then the whole thing will have to be reversed", says Singhvi.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Singhvi says defer swearing-in till 4.30 pm.

"If Yeddyurappa comes with the records/letter and the Court finds there is no merit in my case, I am out.

Else I am in.

But once he is sworn in then the whole thing will have to be reversed", says Singhvi.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

"If Article 356 power cannot be injuncted then Article 361 power cannot be injuncted", Mukul Rohatgi.

"And what is so great about it. Every other day, Your Lordships set aside Governor's actions", says Rohatgi and refers to Uttarakhand case.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Discussion on Governor’s role

Rohatgi arguing on Governor's immunity.

"It happened in Nabam Rabia's case", says Rohatgi referring to how SC had issued notice to Governor and then recalled it.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

What’s the rush? 

AG KK Venugopal says no urgency in the matter.

"Let the matter be heard at length. No irreversible damage will be done", Venugopal.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

4 a.m. humour in Court Number 6 

Abhishek Manu Singhvi raises question marks over the appearance of Mukul Rohatgi.

"And he wants swearing-in tomorrow", Singhvi.

"I want dismissal of the petition", says Rohatgi as Court room bursts into laughter.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

“Ready for floor test in 7 days”: Rohatgi and Venugopal

AG KK Venugopal and Mukul Rohatgi say they are agreeable to floor test in seven days.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

All these actions are subject to judicial review…

"You cannot deny that all these actions are subject to judicial review though he (Governor) might not be liable", AK Sikri J.

"I am not denying that", AG KK Venugopal.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

The questions come thick and fast: “Why 15 days time?”

"Why 15 days", asks Justice SA Bobde.

" That is the Governor's decision", replies Venugopal.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

“On what basis did BSY stake claim?”

Bench asks KK Venugopal the ground on which Yeddyurappa has claimed stake to form government.

"Letter by Yeddyurappa on what basis he has claimed is not available to us right now", AK Sikri J.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Defection law won’t apply…? That’s “preposterous” says SC judge

Venugopal says defection law will not apply before taking of oath.

Bench does not agree.

"That is preposterous", says AK Sikri J.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

The midnight wake-up call 

Mukul Rohatgi intervenes: "I was woken up from sleep at midnight. This petition should never have been taken up at midnight. Will heavens fall if somebody is sworn in?"

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

At 3:30 am IST, Singhvi signs off

Abhishek Manu Singhvi concludes submissions. Attorney General KK Venugopal commences submissions for Central government.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Singhvi pushes the sum of parts explanation

Abhishek Manu Singhvi resumes submissions.

"The claim of @BSYBJP is that he is leader of only BJP; he is claiming majority of his own party only.

But Claim of Kumaraswamy is he is leader of JD(S) and @INCIndia"

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

3 judge bench discussion is on

Bench having a long discussion.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Singhvi speaking on scope of judicial review of Governor’s actions

Abhishek Manu Singhvi now advancing arguments on scope of judicial review of Governor's actions. @BSYBJP @INCIndia @BJP4India

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

When there is no absolute majority…

When there is no absolute majority, then the Sarkaria Commission guidelines come into play which has been appropriated by Your Lordships in Rameshwar Prasad.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Governor “completely tainted” says Congress JDS petition

Petition states that decision of the Governor is completely tainted with arbitrariness, malafide, partisanship and has been taken in an extremely hasty manner to pre-empt the coalition from forming the Government. As such it is violative of Article 14 of the Constitution.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

This is where it’s going on

Hearing about to start in Court 6 pic.twitter.com/O2Xs5c5e4K

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

#Precedent

AM Singhvi is now dealing with the order of preference set out in Sarkaria Commission Report.

1. Pre poll alliance
2. Single Largest Party with support of others including independent
3. Post poll alliance.

Singhvi trying to explain the scope of the above terminologies.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Congress is in no mood to back down

Abhishek Manu Singhvi explaining on SR Bommai and Rameshwar Prasad cases.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

It’s 3 am IST, arguments rage on in Court Number 6 

"What if the Governor invites a group of only 10 MLAs and keeps swearing in at 9 am. And Your Lordships say Governor cannot be injuncted", asks @DrAMSinghvi.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Singhvi cites examples of earlier political combinations that made the cut

AM Singhvi now cites examples where combination of parties was given preference over single largest party.

Meghalaya, Manipur, Goa, Delhi, Jharkhand, Jammu & Kashmir.

— Bar & Bench (@barandbench) May 16, 2018

Congress sticks to simple math: 116 is greater than 104 

It's unheard that a party is given 15 days time to prove its majority from 104 to the magical number(112). Giving permission to form the govt to someone who is having 104 seats as compared to the other group that is having 116, is adding insult to injury: Abhishek Manu Singhvi

— ANI (@ANI) May 16, 2018

Justice Sikri now questioning Singhvi on how many seats the Congress got and whether this was a pre-poll alliance.