Ramalinga Reddy Resigns from Karnataka Cabinet Over Portfolio Dispute

Karnataka Water Resources Minister Ramalinga Reddy has announced his resignation from the state Cabinet, citing dissatisfaction with the allocation of portfolios. Reddy, speaking from his office in Koramangala, Bengaluru, stated that Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar had assured him of the Bengaluru Urban portfolio, which was not honored. Instead, he was given the Water Resources portfolio, prompting his decision to resign. Reddy emphasized that his resignation was not due to anger towards any individual, including AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge or the Chief Minister, but rather a matter of personal conscience.

Reddy, a veteran Congress leader with a political career spanning over five decades, highlighted his long-standing service to the party and his legislative career since 1985. He has held various key portfolios, including Education, Transport, and Finance, and has been elected multiple times from Bengaluru constituencies. Despite his resignation from the ministerial post, Reddy will continue to serve as an MLA and remain active within the Congress party.

In his resignation letter, Reddy expressed gratitude to the Congress party and the Chief Minister for the opportunities provided to him. He reiterated his commitment to the party and his intention to continue working as an MLA. Reddy's decision follows a series of discussions with senior leaders, including former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, regarding the portfolio allocation. He claimed that assurances made by Chief Minister Shivakumar and his brother D.K. Suresh were not fulfilled, leading to his decision to step down.