Karnataka CM Yeddi resigns: List of frontrunners to replace him

BS Yediyurappa resigned as Karnataka chief minister on Monday, ending his two-year stint. The announcement from the 78-year-old leader came as a function was organised in state capital Bengaluru to celebrate the second annoversary of the government.

Yediyurappa tweeted to say that he is honoured to have served as Karnataka CM, and thanked PM Modi and other senior BJP leaders for supporting him. This was in reference to him continuing on the post even after completing the age of 75.

Meanwhile, the names of several leaders have been doing the rounds for the key post.

The Panchamasali Lingayat community has been demanding the chief ministerial post for several months. BJP leaders from the community including Basangouda Ramangouda Patil Yatnal, Arvind Bellad and Murugesh Nirani are believed to be the front runners in the race. Karnataka Home Minister Basavaraj Bommai's name is also being mentioned.

Former union minister DV Sadananda Gowda and BJP general secretary CT Ravi could also be the next chief minister if the party high command gives priority to the Gowda community. Also, R Ashok and CN Ashwathnarayan are the other popular figures from the community.