New Delhi, July 12: Union Urban Development minister Ananth kumar has resigned following his recent appointment as Karnataka BJP chief and his portfolio temporarily entrusted to road transport minister B C Khanduri, setting off speculation that the Union Cabinet will undergo a reshuffle shortly. President A P J Abdul Kalam accepted Kumar`s resignation on the recommendation of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a Rashtrapati Bhavan communique said tonight adding retired Major General Khaduri would hold this additional portfolio. 44-year-old Kumar, who represents Bangalore south Lok Sabha seat, was appointed Karnataka BJP chief ahead of the assembly polls next year and quit the cabinet in keeping with the party`s principle of one-man-one-post.


Bureau Report