Rajanna's sacking sparks uproar in assembly
The cooperation minister was dropped following directions from Congress' high command, reportedly over his remarks questioning Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's votes theft allegations during the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
The govt avoided a debate by tabling the notification on Rajanna's exit after Question Hour. HK Patil, law and parliamentary affairs minister who tabled the notification, said: "As per rules, if any minister leaves the council of ministers, he or she may make a statement with the speaker's permission, but beyond that, no discussion or explanation can be allowed."
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Deputy leader of the opposition Aravind Bellad and senior BJP member Suresh Kumar demanded the CM speak on the matter. But Patil argued that ministerial exits were not discussed in the House earlier. "For example when Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned as vice-president, was there discussion on that?" he asked.
BJP members countered saying a resignation is different from being sacked. Bellad asked, "What was Rajanna's mistake, people of the state should know…Was he removed for speaking the truth?"
Minister Priyank Kharge retorted, "Should your permission be sought for removing a minister? Keeping or removing someone from the cabinet is the prerogative of the CM.
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What do you have to do with it?" Speaker UT Khader intervened to pacify both sides and moved on with the day's business.
Meanwhile, in Madhugiri, the constituency in Tumakuru district which Rajanna represents, witnessed tension Tuesday as supporters of the sacked minister protested his removal from the cabinet.
Led by corporator Girija Manjunath, who resigned from Madhugiri's municipality, protesters marched through the town with banners and blasting slogans over loudspeakers.
They condemned the Congress high command and demanded justice for Rajanna. The agitation escalated into a bandh call and shopkeepers were forced to close establishments. Most shops and stalls remained shut for the day, but those that stayed open faced protesters' ire.
Police attempts to calm the crowd failed, and some shops were damaged while owners and staff were manhandled. Effigies were hung in front of shops that stayed open. A man also attempted self-immolation by pouring petrol on himself but was stopped by police.
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