Sun Jan 25 11:01:56 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Karnataka Chief Minister Addresses Governor’s Discretion and Republic Day Tableau Exclusion
The Story:
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah addressed reporters on January 25, 2026, in Mysuru, discussing the upcoming Republic Day address by Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot. He asserted that while the Governor is constitutionally bound to deliver the speech provided by the state government, he is free to make changes during the Republic Day celebrations. The Chief Minister also responded to concerns regarding the exclusion of Karnataka’s tableau from the Republic Day parade in New Delhi and commented on the participation of state ministers in the World Economic Forum (WEF) at Davos.
Key Points:
- Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot is constitutionally obligated to deliver the government’s speech at the joint session, citing Articles 176 and 163 of the Constitution.
- The Governor has the liberty to make changes to the speech for the Republic Day celebrations.
- Siddaramaiah confirmed the Governor submitted a report to President Droupadi Murmu regarding the joint session address but the State government will not submit their own report.
- Karnataka’s tableau, themed ‘Millets to Microchip’, was not selected for the Republic Day parade 2026 in New Delhi.
- Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Minister M.B. Patil are participating in the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, promoting Karnataka as a favorable investment destination.
- Preliminary discussions for the upcoming State Budget are underway, with meetings scheduled to begin on February 2.
Key Takeaways:
- Tensions exist between the Karnataka state government and the Governor, evident from the Governor’s report to the President.
- The state government acknowledges the Governor’s right to modify the Republic Day address, suggesting a pragmatic approach to potential disagreements.
- The exclusion of Karnataka’s tableau from the Republic Day parade could be interpreted as a snub, but the Chief Minister downplays the significance.
- Karnataka is actively seeking foreign investment, highlighting its skilled workforce and focus on skill development.