Karnataka Legislature Adjourned Early as Opposition Steps Up Nagendra Protest

The Karnataka legislature’s monsoon session ended three days ahead of schedule on Monday amid sustained protests by the BJP and JD(S) over the continuation of B Nagendra in the state Cabinet.

The session, which began on August 13 and was scheduled to continue until August 27, was adjourned sine die by the Assembly Speaker G S Patil and Legislative Council Chairman Saleem Ahmed. The Opposition had protested for six consecutive days, demanding Nagendra’s removal over allegations linked to the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki ST Development Corporation scam.

Leader of Opposition R Ashoka announced a day-night agitation inside the House if Nagendra was not sacked. Opposition members subsequently entered the Assembly Well carrying placards and raising slogans.

Despite the disruption, the Speaker completed legislative business. Eight Bills were passed without discussion, including legislation permitting portions of park and garden land to be used for public infrastructure and utility projects. Supplementary estimates and finance-related Bills tabled by Chief Minister D K Shivakumar were also approved.

The early conclusion meant key issues, including drought conditions and alleged irregularities in the Karnataka Public Service Commission, did not receive substantive debate.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Krishna Byre Gowda accused the Opposition of deliberately disrupting proceedings, saying the government was ready to discuss all issues, including allegations against Nagendra, if proper notice was given.

Ashoka, however, accused the Congress government of shielding Nagendra and criticised the Speaker for failing to ensure meaningful debate. He said the Opposition would approach the Governor seeking intervention.

Nagendra, who had resigned from the previous Siddaramaiah Cabinet amid the Valmiki Corporation controversy, was inducted into D K Shivakumar’s ministry on August 3. He was arrested by the ED in July 2024, granted bail in October and has since been named in ED and CBI chargesheets in the case.