JOIN USAccusing Puttanna of the JD(S) of being partisan in discharging his duties, D S Veeranna and Dr Doddarange Gowda of the BJP, in their petition sought the Chair’s consent to move a motion in the House seeking removal of Puttanna.
In a House of 75 members, the BJP has consolidated its position with 40 members after registering victories in elections from local authorities, teachers and graduates constituencies. The BJP’s strength in the Council is more than the combined strength of the Congress with 18 members and 14 of the JD(S). The BJP sources said the party is cut up with Puttanna for his frequent outbursts against the government.
As per rules and procedure of the Legislative Council, a 14-day notice is be served before the issue is taken up in the House. At least 10 members have to support the no-confidence motion so as to put it for voting. Elections will have to be held to fill the vacancy if Puttanna is removed from the post. The name of the senior most BJP woman MLC Vimala Gowda is doing the rounds as the most likely candidate.
When contacted, Puttanna said he never acted in a partisan manner as the Deputy Chairman.
"I represent a teachers' constituency and I have the right to highlight the problems of my voters and criticise the wrong policies of the government, if any. I cannot keep quiet when there are serious allegations of corruption against the Chief Minister. I will continue to condemn them," he said.
Puttanna said he would not regret if the BJP succeeds in removing him. He said he would then be a freeman and join his leader H D Kumarawamy in exposing the misdeeds of the government.