About the Karnataka Legislative Assembly
Karnataka Legislative Assembly
The Karnataka Legislative Assembly, also known as the Karnataka Vidhan Sabha, is the lower house of the bicameral Karnataka Legislature. It is located at the Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru, the state capital. The Assembly plays a central role in making state laws, approving public expenditure and overseeing the functioning of the government.
The Assembly consists of 224 elected members representing constituencies across Karnataka. The current 16th Karnataka Legislative Assembly was constituted following the 2023 Assembly elections, in which the Indian National Congress secured a majority and formed the government.
Government and leadership
D. K. Shivakumar serves as the Chief Minister of Karnataka, leading the Indian National Congress government. He assumed office in June 2026 following a change in the state's political leadership.
Gurupadagouda Sanganagouda Patil, popularly known as G. S. Patil, is the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly. He presides over House proceedings, maintains order during debates and oversees legislative business.
R. Ashoka of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) serves as the Leader of the Opposition. The BJP is the principal opposition party in the Assembly, while the Janata Dal (Secular) also has representation in the opposition.
Legislative responsibilities
The Karnataka Legislative Assembly is responsible for debating and passing state laws, approving the annual budget and examining government policies. Its members raise public concerns and discuss matters relating to agriculture, education, healthcare, employment, industry, infrastructure, transport and rural development.
The Assembly also holds the government accountable through questions, discussions, motions and committee proceedings.
Political significance
Karnataka is an important political and economic state in southern India. Bengaluru, its capital, is a major centre for information technology, business, innovation and education. Decisions taken by the Legislative Assembly influence the state's development priorities, investment climate and public welfare programmes.
The Assembly provides a democratic platform for representatives from different regions and communities to debate policies and address the needs of citizens.
Term and next election
The current 16th Karnataka Legislative Assembly was elected in 2023 and has a regular five-year term covering 2023–2028. The next regular Karnataka Legislative Assembly election is expected in 2028, subject to constitutional and electoral developments.