The Congress’s decision to name its leaders for constitutional posts in the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council in its letterhead and make it public has come under flak. This is especially so when the post of the Chairman of Legislative Council is still held by the senior most member of the Upper House Basavaraj Horatti. The Congress has named its Chief Whip Saleem Ahmed for the post.

The development comes after the Congress with its recent wins in the Council elections has a majority in the Upper House.

Sources said that though the notice to remove Mr. Horatti — elected on the BJP ticket — has to be given 14 days in advance following the notification of the House being convened, it is yet to be given. “Neither has he been informed by the ruling party nor has been given a notice to this effect. The Chairman is elected by the House. The Congress has set a new precedence by publicly announcing its candidates and taking away the power of the House. These issues are to be discussed within the party forum. This is insulting the constitutional post,” said sources aware of the developments.

When the House commences for the Monsoon Session on August 13, the Upper House will not have the Deputy Chairman following the disqualification of M.K. Pranesh. As per Rule 165 of the House that cites Article 183 of the Constitution dealing with removal of the Chairman, notice has to be issued to the Council’s Secretary following which the date will be fixed by the Chairman by adding it in the House Business. The day has to be fixed on any day after 14 days after receiving the notice from members.

Sources said: “They (Congress) has power. But it is not honourable way to handle the situation. This is for the first time such an announcement has been made. It is wrong.”