Ramalinga Reddy to Restrict Political Work Exclusively to BTM Layout

By Editorial·8 June 2026·1 min read

A photorealistic wide shot of a senior South Indian politician in a white khadi kurta, seated at a desk inside a local g...

Senior Congress leader and minister Ramalinga Reddy announced on June 8, 2026, that he will restrict his political focus and ministerial operations exclusively to his BTM Layout constituency in Bengaluru. The decision, which follows a period of intense political firefighting by party bosses and Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, means Reddy will not involve himself in wider Bengaluru development or the upcoming GBA elections for the city's five corporations.

Reddy stated that while he will soon take charge of the major irrigation department, he will limit his ministerial work strictly to his constituency. The minister declared that he would "not even consider" taking on the Bengaluru development portfolio even if it is offered to him in the future.

"I shall limit my work to BTM Layout. I will not go over and beyond it in the city," Reddy said.

This hands-off approach is expected to present a challenge for the Congress party, particularly with the city-bound polls approaching. Reddy has historically held an influential presence in Bengaluru's local elections, and his withdrawal from broader city politics effectively halts his cooperation for party campaigns in the upcoming weeks and months.

Regarding his new role in the irrigation department, Reddy expressed confidence in his capabilities. "It has been offered to me. I shall do better work than any other minister," he said.

According to internal sources, Reddy's decision was prompted by the appointment of Krishna Byre Gowda, whom sources described as a comparatively "junior" minister, to the post of Bengaluru Development Minister. This portfolio arrangement reportedly forced Reddy to approach Gowda to request funds and assistance for his local areas.

In response to the friction, Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara downplayed the portfolio situation, describing the dispute as "a closed chapter." Parameshwara added that all issues have been resolved and that the Chief Minister will make final decisions regarding the allocation of the remaining portfolios during an upcoming cabinet reshuffle.