The Bharatiya Janata Party government in Karnataka, headed by Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, on Thursday passed the second floor test in under four days with ease. However, the trust vote outcome is subject to the verdict of the Karnataka High Court in the case relating to the disqualification of 16 legislators.
Of a total of 206 members present at the time of voting, the BJP got 106 votes, two more than for a simple majority. The combined Opposition tally was 100. Should the Speaker be compelled to cast his vote, it would be seven.
Political circles here say that the High Court verdict may not be final as either of the parties suffering a setback will take the matter to the Supreme Court.
In contrast to the pandemonium in the Legislative Assembly on Monday during the first floor test, Thursday's session was held in a friendly atmosphere irrespective of the division that was sought when the trust vote was taken up.
Speaker K.G. Bopaiah turned down a request for a discussion on the motion, as he had provided for the same during the first test.
Security was tight in and around the Vidhana Soudha, which comprises the two Houses of the legislature.
Mr. Yeddyurappa said: “In the history of the country, there is no instance of a government proving majority within three days after winning the trust vote. I have created history of sorts by winning the trust vote for the second time in three days. A lobby attempted to dislodge my government and in the coming days we will come out with details.”
Independent votes for BJP
Interestingly, Independent MLA Varthur Prakash from Kolar voted for the BJP in the confidence vote. Manappa Vajjal (BJP) from Lingsugur and M.C. Ashwath (Janata Dal-S) from Channapatna abstained from voting and the parties are expected to seek their disqualification, since abstaining during voting on a confidence motion was tantamount to violation of the anti-defection law.
Eshanna Gulagagannavar (BJP) from Yelburga, who has been seriously ill for over a month, was wheeled into the House to cast his vote, much to the party's relief.
Later, Mr. Yeddyurappa called on Governor H.R. Bhardwaj.
The Speaker has sent a report to the Governor.
