Karnataka Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti has said that he will decide on his future only after holding discussions with Opposition leaders, following a request from the Chief Minister asking him to resign from the post. The development has drawn attention during the ongoing political discussions in Karnataka regarding the leadership of the Legislative Council.
Speaking to reporters, Horatti confirmed that the Chief Minister had requested him to submit his resignation. However, he clarified that he would not make an immediate decision and would first consult leaders of the Opposition before taking any further steps.
Horatti emphasized that the office of the Chairman of the Karnataka Legislative Council is an institutional position governed by the rules and traditions of the House. According to him, the Chairman is elected by members of the Legislative Council, and therefore any decision regarding the office should respect parliamentary conventions rather than being based solely on political party decisions.
He further stated that the authority to elect or replace the Chairman lies with the Legislative Council itself. Referring to the constitutional and legislative framework, Horatti noted that the position belongs to the House and not to the political leadership of any individual party.
During his interaction with the media, Horatti also pointed to the historical record of the Karnataka Legislative Council. He said that since the formation of the Council in 1956, no Chairman has resigned before completing the term of office. According to him, previous Chairpersons had continued in office until the completion of their tenure, making the present situation unusual in the history of the institution.
The political discussion gained further significance after the Congress party nominated senior leader Saleem Ahmed as its candidate for the post of Chairman. The nomination has led to speculation regarding possible changes in the leadership of the Upper House of the Karnataka Legislature.
At present, no official announcement has been made regarding Horatti's final decision. His statement indicates that consultations with Opposition leaders will take place before any formal step is taken. The outcome of these discussions could influence the future course of events in the Legislative Council.
The Karnataka Legislative Council serves as the Upper House of the state's bicameral legislature. The Chairman presides over Council proceedings, ensures orderly conduct of business, and performs responsibilities assigned under the Constitution and the Rules of Procedure of the House.
Political observers note that any change in the office of the Chairman is subject to established legislative procedures. If a resignation is submitted or any vacancy arises, the process for electing a new Chairman would be carried out according to the constitutional provisions and the rules governing the Karnataka Legislative Council.
Further developments are expected after consultations among political parties and legislative members. The government, Opposition, and members of the Council are likely to continue discussions before any formal decision is announced.