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 Karnataka: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party legislator and former minister S. Suresh Kumar has called for a serious political discussion on whether the long-standing practice of the Governor addressing a joint session of the Karnataka legislature should continue. Speaking in the Legislative Assembly on Friday, he suggested that Karnataka could take the initiative in reassessing the relevance of this constitutional convention.

Remarks Made During Assembly Proceedings

Suresh Kumar raised the issue while participating in the debate on the motion of thanks to the Governor’s address in Bengaluru. He told the House that Karnataka had witnessed the tenure of 18 Governors so far, each remembered differently for their conduct and role. According to him, the tradition of the Governor’s address has its roots in colonial-era practices and deserves renewed scrutiny in the present political context.

Questioning Contemporary Relevance

He argued that the address may no longer serve a meaningful purpose. Pointing to views expressed elsewhere in the country, Kumar noted that a Chief Minister from a neighbouring state had even proposed exploring a constitutional amendment to discontinue the practice altogether. In his view, such discussions highlight the growing discomfort with a ritual that may have outlived its usefulness.

Erosion of Purpose and Dignity

Suresh Kumar said the original intent and dignity associated with the Governor’s address have gradually weakened. He observed that the speech, delivered in the name of “my government,” often becomes the subject of criticism and condemnation from opposition benches. This, he said, ultimately places the Governor’s office itself in an uncomfortable position. He urged lawmakers to reflect on whether the address remains necessary or relevant in today’s legislative environment.

Reference to Legal Opinion

Citing the views of noted jurist and former Governor Justice M. Rama Jois, Kumar recalled that the practice had faced criticism even from constitutional experts. Justice Jois, he said, had opposed the idea of the Governor speaking on behalf of an elected government using the phrase “my government,” arguing that it blurred constitutional boundaries.

Call for a Broader National Discussion

According to Suresh Kumar, Karnataka should take the lead in determining whether the Governor’s address is required at all. If it is to continue, he said, there must be clarity on its objective and content. He stressed that the issue should not be limited to one state and called for a wider national debate to reassess the convention in a modern democratic framework.

Political Messaging in the Address

He also criticised the increasing political tone of Governor’s addresses. Ideally, he said, such speeches should outline a government’s achievements and future plans in a neutral manner. Instead, he claimed, the content often reflects strong political messaging. He pointed out that portions omitted during the address were later released by the government as advertisements, achieving their intended political impact through other means.

Concerns Over Administrative Stability

Beyond the issue of the Governor’s address, Suresh Kumar spoke about internal uncertainty within the ruling Congress party. Referring to repeated speculation about leadership changes, he said shifting timelines had created confusion within the state administration. According to him, bureaucrats were hesitant to take decisions due to the lack of clarity, which he described as detrimental to governance and development.

Contradictions in Economic Messaging

Drawing attention to differing political narratives, Kumar highlighted what he described as inconsistencies in statements about the Indian economy. While some national-level leaders had made negative remarks, a Congress leader from Karnataka reportedly offered a more positive assessment at an international forum. Kumar said such contrasting positions were difficult to ignore and added to public confusion.

Recent Trigger for the Controversy

The renewed debate follows last week’s events in the Assembly, when Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot declined to read the full address prepared by the Congress-led government. He delivered only a brief statement before concluding the session, leading to sharp reactions and disruption in the House.

Escalating Political Tensions

This incident has intensified the ongoing friction between the Raj Bhavan and the state government. The episode has sparked wider discussion across political circles in Karnataka, with the future of the Governor’s address now emerging as a significant constitutional and political question.