BENGALURU: Karnataka’s minister for textiles, sugar and agricultural marketing, Shivanand S Patil, on Friday submitted his resignation from the legislative assembly—but with a condition attached.
In his letter to Assembly Speaker U T Khader, Patil requested that his resignation be accepted only if expelled BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal also resigns. Yatnal currently represents the Bijapur City constituency in Vijayapura district.

Patil, who represents Basavana Bagevadi—also in Vijayapura—has made it clear he intends to contest from Bijapur City if Yatnal steps down. The move marks a dramatic turn in the escalating political rivalry between the two prominent Lingayat leaders.
The minister had recently participated in a protest against Yatnal. In response, the BJP leader challenged Patil to resign and face him at the ballot box. Yatnal accused Patil of relying on Muslim votes and controversially labeled him an “agent of Pakistan.”
In retaliation, Patil submitted his resignation but insisted that it was entirely his decision. “My resignation has nothing to do with the Congress party or chief minister Siddaramaiah,” he said.
Speaker U T Khader confirmed receiving the letter and said the matter would be handled as per constitutional norms. “He has now submitted his resignation letter. We will deliberate on this matter. We will examine it in accordance with the Constitution. He has presented his viewpoint. We will scrutinize it. Submitting a resignation is his right. We will verify whether it is appropriate or not and make a decision. We will decide based on legal provisions,” Khader stated.
If Yatnal reciprocates, Vijayapura could soon witness a high-voltage bypoll battle between two heavyweight rivals.