Amid the political developments in Karnataka and growing speculation over Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s possible resignation, Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot left Bengaluru for Mumbai late on Wednesday night.
With the Governor away from Bengaluru, questions are now being raised over whether the Chief Minister can formally submit his resignation without meeting him in person.
Can A Chief Minister Resign In Governor’s Absence?
Constitutionally, a Chief Minister can tender his/her resignation even if the Governor is not physically present and the resignation addressed to the Governor can be communicated through official channels.
However, the Chief Ministers generally submit their resignations directly to the Governor during a formal meeting at the Raj Bhavan. The Governor then officially accepts the resignation and begins the next constitutional process, including appointing a caretaker government or inviting another leader to form the government.
What Does The Constitution Say?
Article 164(1) of the Constitution states: “The Chief Minister shall be appointed by the Governor and the other Ministers shall be appointed by the Governor on the advice of the Chief Minister, and the Ministers shall hold office during the pleasure of the Governor.”
This means the Governor plays a central constitutional role in the appointment and continuation of the state government. While a CM can always communicate resignation through official channels, it will only be effective formally after the Governor accepts it and initiates the next constitutional process.
What Happens Now?
According to CMO sources cited by CNN-News 18, Siddaramaiah is expected to visit Raj Bhavan between 2:30 pm and 3 pm to submit his resignation. Since Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot is currently not in Bengaluru, the Chief Minister is likely to hand over the resignation letter to the Governor’s secretary.
Sources further said Siddaramaiah is planning to travel to Delhi later in the evening. While there is officially “nothing on the agenda”, CMO sources maintained that the visit is intended to thank Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.
With the Governor currently away, speculation over an immediate resignation or swearing-in has slowed for the moment. The Congress leadership can still continue internal consultations and decide on leadership changes even in the Governor’s absence. However, any official constitutional process is unlikely to move forward until the Governor becomes available.
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