The legislature wing of the Bharatiya Janata Party has sought the disqualification of one more party MLA Manappa Vajjal, but any action against him is unlikely as Speaker K.G. Bopaiah has decided to strictly go by the provisions of the 10th Schedule of the Constitution that relates to disqualification for defection.
Eleven other BJP legislators were disqualified ahead of the October 11 trust vote on grounds of defection. They have challenged their disqualification in the Karnataka High Court. The charge against Mr. Vajjal pertains to violating party whip.
No action now: Speaker
Mr. Bopaiah told The Hindu that he would refrain from initiating any action at this stage since it would be illegal and violative of the provisions under the 10th Schedule.
A party can condone absence during a trust vote within 15 days of voting.
“Since the first trust vote was taken up on October 11, I can initiate any action, if need be, only after October 26,” Mr. Bopaiah said.
The strength of the ruling BJP now is 106. The strength of the Opposition is 98 after two Congress legislators and a JD(S) member resigned from the Assembly.
Meanwhile, the Congress, the BJP and the Janata Dal (Secular) are keenly awaiting the court verdict.
The Congress on Friday launched demonstrations across Karnataka, demanding the proclamation of President's rule.
