Karnataka Minister Condemns Governor's Conduct in Joint Legislative Session
Agriculture Minister N Cheluvarayaswamy on Friday launched a sharp critique against the governor's behavior during the joint session of the Karnataka legislature in Mandya. The minister expressed strong disapproval, stating that a governor acting as an agent of the Central government severely undermines the foundational spirit of democracy.
Constitutional Protocol Breached During Address
Reacting to the governor cutting short his official address, Cheluvarayaswamy raised significant questions about constitutional propriety. He emphasized that it was inappropriate for the constitutional head to depart from the House without completing the prepared speech and without paying due respect to the national anthem. The minister highlighted that reading the address prepared by the elected state government is a long-established convention followed uniformly across all states in India.
Concerns Over Governor's Neutrality and Democratic Threats
Cheluvarayaswamy voiced deep concerns regarding the governor's neutrality, remarking that if governors are functioning as representatives of a specific political party or as agents of the BJP-led Central government, this should be declared openly. He recalled past instances, noting that even former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy had described the governor as an agent of the Centre. The minister also cited similar confrontations in states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala, observing that such trends pose a serious and growing threat to democratic values nationwide.
Criticism of Central Leadership and Opposition Behavior
The minister directed his remarks toward Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging them not to issue directions that lead to such constitutional confrontations. Additionally, Cheluvarayaswamy criticized the conduct of Leader of Opposition R Ashoka in the assembly, stating that his aggressive behavior was unbecoming of a senior legislator. He alleged that Ashoka's actions appeared to be guided by instructions from the Union government and claimed that objectionable language was used during the proceedings. In response to Ashoka's remark about "teaching a lesson" to the ruling party, Cheluvarayaswamy asserted that no individual or party has the authority to teach lessons in a democratic system.
Clarification on State Leadership Changes
On the topic of potential leadership changes within the state, the minister provided clarity, stating that the decision rests solely with the high command. He noted that both Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar have affirmed that national leaders will make an appropriate call at their level, rendering further debate unnecessary. Cheluvarayaswamy praised CM Siddaramaiah, stating he has never embarrassed the party or government, while Shivakumar has consistently stood by him, showcasing unity within the state leadership.
