Karnataka minister Nagendra resigns as Congress seeks to contain fallout

Congress leader K.N. Rajanna declared the matter closed on Saturday, dismissing calls for further inquiry into the resignation. Speaking in Bengaluru, Rajanna insisted the reasons for the departure were already common knowledge and required no additional public debate. His stance marks a push by the ruling party to shift the narrative away from the controversy that has dominated Karnataka political circles.

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar offered a different perspective, framing the resignation as a strategic decision intended to shield the Congress party from embarrassment. Shivakumar defended the minister, noting that Nagendra, a prominent Dalit and Scheduled Caste leader, has been targeted by the BJP with false allegations. According to the Chief Minister, the minister’s choice to vacate his post serves as a testament to his loyalty, even as the party high command prepares to finalize its position on the matter.