"I have got directions from my superiors and have been asked to remain neutral during the trust vote," Mahesh told reporters on Sunday. With the floor test likely to be held on Monday, the coalition is hoping that the Supreme Court ruling goes in its favour and helps disqualify the rebels under the stringent anti-defection laws. "BSP MLA Sri Mahesh declares that he will not attend floor test on 22 July in Karnataka Assembly ... That brings the no down by one more .. Kumaraswamy has assured to conclude the discussions on Monday, paving the way for the trust vote. The BJP has blamed Kumaraswamy of prolonging the floor test and the speaker for siding with the coalition.

Source: Mint July 21, 2019 15:22 UTC