Crisis in Karnataka

When the Cong-JD(S) government came to power in Karnataka, it was hailed as an example of Opposition unity amid the BJP’s rolling juggernaut. The swearing-in ceremony of HD Kumaraswamy was attended by leaders from across the political spectrum that gave hope of the Opposition rising to the occasion when needed. Fourteen months later, the coalition is embroiled in a crisis with the resignations of 15 MLAs—12 from the Congress and three from the JD(S), reducing it to a minority. The BJP, in fact, had laid claim to power after the Assembly elections itself as it emerged as the single largest party but the alliance stymied its chances. Earlier, in 2007, too, the Kumaraswamy government was reduced to a minority after the BJP withdrew support, leading to President’s rule.

Numbers game apart, Karnataka should be seen in the light of developments elsewhere — four Telugu Desam Party MPs joining the BJP, dealing the southern party a blow and the clash with TMC in West Bengal in what is becoming a turf war.

The crisis raises some points. First, the credibility of coalitions where the commitment of an elected representative to the people and ideology can come under a cloud. Nitish Kumar knows it in Bihar, having first allied with the BJP, then the RJD and then back to the saffron fold. Secondly, the role of constitutional offices like that of the Speaker and the Governor. The SC order barring MLAs from being compelled to vote led to a debate with parties saying they have the power to issue a whip to their legislators and it would be a violation of the anti-defection law in the Tenth Schedule if it does not happen. Not surprisingly, the Karnataka Congress moved the SC saying its July 17 order compromises this right. It is the political right of the Opposition to bring down a government but the legal and constitutional validity of the measures adopted will, and should always, be up for scrutiny.  In the absence of clarity, President’s rule can be an option, but only as a short-term measure. There’s nothing like having an elected government that functions within the constitutional framework at the helm in a democracy.