Speaker U T Khader administers oath to BJP’s D N Jeevaraj as MLA

Mangalore Today News Network

Bengaluru, May 7, 2026: Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U T Khader on Wednesday administered the oath of office to BJP leader D N Jeevaraj, who was declared elected from the Sringeri Assembly constituency following a recount of postal ballots.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at Vidhana Soudha after what BJP leaders described as an intervention by Governor Thawarchand Gehlot.

The recounting of postal ballots was conducted on May 3, 2026, in accordance with directions issued by the High Court in response to an election petition filed by Jeevaraj.

Leader of Opposition R Ashoka had alleged that the BJP approached the Governor after Jeevaraj was not administered the oath despite receiving the Election Commission certificate and the state government issuing the official gazette notification declaring him elected.

Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Khader clarified that the Governor had not issued any directive but had merely informed him about the BJP’s appeal.

“There has been no delay from my side. We received the Election Commission’s order on Monday. On Tuesday, I was in Mangaluru, and my office received the MLA’s request at around 11.30 am. Due to prior engagements, I could come to Bengaluru only today,” Khader said.

He further said that the BJP had approached the Governor in haste, though he was unaware of the reason.

“To avoid unnecessary speculation and discussion surrounding the Speaker’s chair, I made time to administer the oath. I will fulfil my constitutional duty,” he added.

Khader also stressed the importance of mutual trust between the Speaker, the ruling party and the opposition in a democracy.

“Since this was a special case involving recounting, I needed to examine the matter legally as well, and I have done so. The Governor did not exert any pressure on me,” he clarified, while confirming that he had responded to the Governor’s letter.