Karnataka Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti resigned from his post on Friday, bringing an end to the political uncertainty surrounding the position in the state’s Upper House. The resignation came after a series of meetings involving Horatti, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and senior Congress leaders over the transition of leadership.

Horatti submitted his resignation letter to the Deputy Chairman of the Legislative Council, stating that he was stepping down voluntarily. The Chief Minister’s Office shared the resignation details after Horatti met Shivakumar in the morning and later held discussions at the Chairman’s office. Following his resignation, Legislative Council Secretary Jyothi issued a notification declaring that the Chairman’s post had fallen vacant.

Congress has nominated MLC Saleem Ahmed for the Chairman’s position, with the election expected to be held on August 14. Shivakumar, Karnataka Congress president B.K. Hariprasad, Saleem Ahmed and other senior leaders met Horatti to discuss the transition and future arrangements for the Council.

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Speaking to reporters, Horatti said he had already informed the Chief Minister about his decision to resign by August 14. He said he had requested time until after the Deputy Chairman’s election and had earlier made his intention to step down public. Horatti also thanked Shivakumar for the cooperation extended to him during his tenure.

Chief Minister Shivakumar praised Horatti’s contribution and described him as a veteran leader who had discharged his responsibilities with distinction. He said Horatti wanted to express his gratitude to members of the Legislative Council on August 14 before formally leaving office. Shivakumar added that since Horatti remains the senior-most member of the Council, he may be appointed as the pro tem Chairman temporarily.

Shivakumar also ruled out the possibility of a no-confidence motion against Horatti, saying that both sides had reached an understanding. He said the government would recommend to the Governor that Horatti continue as pro tem Chairman until the formal election process is completed. The transition marks a significant change in the Karnataka Legislative Council leadership, with Saleem Ahmed set to assume the Chairman’s role.

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