The Chief Minister submitted a comprehensive report to the party leadership covering the continuous Opposition protests in the legislature, the resulting two-day curtailment of the monsoon session, the BJP's planned Bellary padayatra, and the political developments surrounding Nagendra's induction into the Cabinet. After hearing the details, the high command gave an implicit green signal for Nagendra's resignation, according to party sources.

Pros and cons of removing Nagendra discussed

The meeting involved detailed discussions on the ramifications of both dropping Nagendra from the Cabinet and retaining him. Concerns were raised regarding potential damage to the party's image due to the BJP's planned padayatra. Alternatives were deliberated in the event of his removal, while justifications were also presented by pointing to several ministers in BJP-ruled states and during the previous BJP tenure who continued in office while facing charges.

CM holds discussions with Surjewala

Following his meeting with Rahul Gandhi, D.K. Shivakumar held discussions with AICC General Secretary in-charge of Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala. The deliberations focused on the post-induction political developments, the outcome of the meeting with Rahul Gandhi, and the directives issued by him.

Minister Satish Jarkiholi notably accompanied the Chief Minister on his Delhi visit. Representing the Valmiki community himself, Jarkiholi is reportedly pressing to ensure that any prospective vacancy is filled by a leader from the same community and district.

However, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and General Secretary K.C. Venugopal were not in Delhi during the visit. The Chief Minister is likely to travel to New Delhi again once both leaders return, after which the matter is expected to reach a conclusive end.

CM hints at Nagendra's readiness to step down

Statements made by the Chief Minister in Delhi further fueled expectations of a resignation. Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar said, "He (Nagendra) is ready for any sacrifice in the interest of the party. He told me that very day, and he has done so in the past as well. I have placed the factual position before the leaders. The high command will decide everything."

"He is extremely loyal to our party and is a massive asset. He has been elected to the Assembly four times. We know he has done nothing wrong, but the BJP is playing politics. Don't central BJP leaders and ministers in various BJP-ruled states face allegations? The BJP cannot digest the fact that we are in power. Be that as it may, I have discussed everything necessary for the party with our leaders," he added.

Rahul questions reason behind induction despite issues

During the extended discussion, Rahul Gandhi reportedly questioned why Nagendra was inducted into the Cabinet when such issues existed, asking if it was necessary when everything was running smoothly. In response, top sources stated that the Chief Minister cited Nagendra's clean chit, bail status, and regional and caste equations. Following the discussion, Rahul Gandhi issued directives on the course of action to be taken.

Ready for any sacrifice

"He (Nagendra) is ready for any sacrifice for the good of the party. He told me so that very day, and he has done it in the past too. I have explained the facts to the leaders. The high command will take the final decision." - D.K. Shivakumar, CM