The Supreme Court will hear the petition filed by Congress-JD(S) combine, challenging the government formation by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka, on May 18.

The apex court on May 17 had refused to stay the swearing-in of BS Yeddyurappa as Chief Minister of the state.

The court also issued notice to respondents including the BJP and asked them to file their replies.

The SC directed the BJP to place before it the letter sent to the Governor staking claim to form government in Karnataka.