Siddaramaiah Affirms Commitment to Congress High Command's Leadership Decision in Karnataka

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reiterated his commitment to abide by the Congress high command's decision regarding leadership changes, ensuring continuity in governance. His son, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, also expressed confidence in the current leadership remaining stable.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reaffirmed his commitment to follow the Congress high command's decision regarding any leadership changes in the state. He has consistently stated that both he and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar will adhere to the high command's decision on this matter. "Will abide by whatever the high command decides," Siddaramaiah told reporters when asked about his son, Congress MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah's statement that there is no question of leadership change as of now.

Yathindra Siddaramaiah expressed confidence that his father would complete his five-year term as Chief Minister. He mentioned that the Congress high command had indicated no immediate plans for a leadership change in Karnataka. "I have been saying this, which is not new. I feel that, as of now, there is nothing like leadership change. I hope that he Siddaramaiah will complete his five-year term," Yathindra told media at the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha.

Leadership Speculations and High Command's Role

The speculation about a potential change in leadership intensified after the Congress government reached the halfway mark of its five-year term on November 20. Rumours were fuelled by an alleged power-sharing agreement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar in 2023. However, recent breakfast meetings between the CM and Deputy CM, held at each other's residences on the high command's instructions, are seen as efforts to quell these rumours and indicate Siddaramaiah's continuation as CM.

Yathindra also addressed questions about Siddaramaiah being summoned to Delhi in January, explaining that such visits are routine for discussing various issues with the high command. He acknowledged ongoing confusion over leadership due to questions about Shivakumar's ambitions but noted that aspirants exist in all parties. The high command has decided not to make any immediate decisions.

Congress Unity Amidst Leadership Rumours

State Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao dismissed claims of factionalism within Congress, stating, "Who said there is factionalism in Congress? We are all united, we attend meetings and discuss in the cabinet meetings together. There are no differences." His remarks came amid rising speculation about internal divisions over leadership.

State Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi responded to BJP's claims that political peace is temporary, asserting that such statements lack substance. "Here the CM, DCM and we ministers are there. The government is functioning well. Their statement has no meaning," he said.

Congress Leaders Deny Factionalism

Congress MLC B.K. Hariprasad also rejected allegations of factionalism within the party. He clarified that he never discussed power-sharing or state-related issues with the Congress high command during his visits to Delhi. "I have been visiting Delhi for the past 30 years... I go there for various reasons. I never discuss Karnataka-related issues," he explained.

Hariprasad further commented on factionalism, stating there is only one faction within Congress led by Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Sonia Gandhi. He blamed media for creating stories about divisions within the party, saying, "There are some unemployed journalists... No one in the Congress is jobless."

Focus on Social Issues and Future Leadership

Hariprasad praised Satish Jarkiholi for his efforts in campaigning for backward classes and fighting superstition. On Jarkiholi being considered a successor to Siddaramaiah, Hariprasad remarked it was positive as a successor is necessary.

The power struggle within Karnataka's ruling party remains a topic of interest as leaders continue to navigate internal dynamics while maintaining public unity. The Congress high command's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the state's political landscape moving forward.

With inputs from PTI