Bengaluru: Senior Karnataka Congress leader R. Ramalinga Reddy has resigned from the state Cabinet just two days after being sworn in as a minister, reportedly expressing dissatisfaction over the portfolio allocated to him.
Reddy was assigned the Major and Medium Irrigation Department but was said to have expected the Bengaluru Development portfolio, which is considered one of the most influential departments in the state government due to its responsibility for the development and administration of the capital city.
Resignation submitted days after swearing-in
In his resignation letter, Reddy thanked the Chief Minister for inducting him into the Cabinet but stated that he could not continue in the position against his conscience.
The veteran Congress leader reportedly conveyed that the portfolio assigned to him did not align with assurances he believed had been given during internal discussions related to the party’s power-sharing arrangements.
His resignation comes as a surprise, given that his induction into the Cabinet had taken place only two days earlier.
Dispute over Bengaluru Development portfolio
Sources within the party indicated that Reddy had expected to be entrusted with the Bengaluru Development portfolio.
However, the department was eventually allocated to Krishna Byre Gowda, leading to disappointment among Reddy and his supporters.
The Bengaluru Development portfolio is regarded as a key department because it oversees major infrastructure, planning and urban development projects in the state capital.
Political observers believe the allocation may have become a point of contention due to the department’s strategic importance.
Veteran leader cites repeated humiliation
Reacting to the developments, Reddy reportedly said that he had been humiliated repeatedly and could no longer tolerate the situation.
Despite stepping down from the Cabinet, he clarified that he would continue to remain a member of the Congress party and serve as an MLA.
His statement has sparked discussions within political circles regarding internal dynamics within the ruling party and the management of ministerial expectations.
Long political career in Congress
Reddy is one of the senior-most leaders in the Karnataka Congress and has been associated with the party for more than five decades.
Over the years, he has held several important portfolios, including Transport, Home Affairs, Primary and Secondary Education, Sakala, and Food and Civil Supplies.
His extensive administrative experience has made him a prominent figure in Karnataka politics and an influential leader within the Congress organisation.
Leadership hopeful of reconciliation
Responding to the resignation, Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar described Reddy as one of his closest friends in the Cabinet.
Shivakumar expressed confidence that the issue could be resolved through dialogue and discussions. Senior Congress leaders are expected to hold consultations with Reddy in an attempt to persuade him to reconsider his decision.
The unexpected resignation has fuelled fresh political speculation within the ruling Congress, with observers closely watching how the leadership handles the situation in the coming days.
Uncertainty over Cabinet dynamics
The resignation has raised questions about internal coordination within the state government and the distribution of portfolios among senior leaders.
Political analysts believe the Congress leadership will seek an early resolution to prevent the issue from escalating and affecting the government’s functioning.
Whether Reddy ultimately sticks to his decision or is convinced to return to the Cabinet is likely to become clearer after discussions between party leaders and the veteran legislator.