KPCC President Mallikarjuna Kharge said the resignation of the 18 BJP ministers had brought administration to a halt. He was speaking to reporters after a Congress delegation apprised Governor Rameshwar Thakur on the political situation. “The administrative collapse has affected flood relief works in north Karnataka. We’ve requested the Governor to direct Chief Secretary to take necessary measures,” he  said.

In tune with the Congress’ non-commital stance on the issue, Kharge said the party was not seeking dismissal of the government nor demanding President’s Rule in the State. On the Congress’ future course of action, the KPCC President said that the party was watching the situation and would take necessary action at an “appropriate time”. “While the BJP Ministers have tendered their resignation, the Chief Minister has not forwarded it to the Governor. Moreover, leaders of both the parties have rushed to Delhi. Events are still unfolding... So we are watching”, he added.

On the decision taken by the State Cabinet on Friday to urge the Governor to summon a joint Legislature session on October 18, Kharge said, “A notification is yet to come out. We will make our stand known after it is issued.” Kharge said the Governor had assured the delegation that appropriate action would be taken to address the party’s concerns.