Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on July 17 morning dismissed rumours about his resignation, saying "not a word was discussed on the issue" with Central leaders during his ongoing Delhi visit.
Speaking before and after meeting BJP Chief J.P. Nadda, when asked about reports in a section of the media that he had offered his resignation during his talk with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, he said "No, not at all... There is no truth in the rumours." He went on to say that he had no reason to hide if he had resigned and "not a single word" was discussed on the issue by him or Central party leaders.
After the meeting with Mr. Nadda, Mr. Yediyurappa said he had been asked to give his all to strengthening the party ahead of the elections in 2023. He added that he would be returning to Delhi to discuss various developmental issues early next month.
He is expected to return to Bengaluru later in the day after meetings with Union Ministers Rajnath Singh and Amit Shah.
On Friday, Mr. Yediyurappa had met Mr. Modi and discussed pending State works, including Mekedatu project across river Cauvery, which the Tamil Nadu government has raised objections to.
His Delhi trip comes at a time when political circles are abuzz with speculations about the possibility of Mr. Yediyurappa being replaced as the Chief Minister, who will soon complete two years in office.
Repeated remarks by some disgruntled leaders within the Karnataka BJP, targeting him and his family with accusations of corruption and interference in administration, have not died down, despite warnings by Karnataka in-charge Arun Singh, embarrassing the party and the government.
There is speculation that Mr. Yediyurappa might discuss the possibility of a Cabinet rejig with Central leaders, dropping some who have been thorn by his side. After his meeting with Mr. Modi, he had said on Friday, "I will tell you if there is any such discussion with seniors over the restructuring or expansion of the Cabinet."
