Raichur, Karnataka — In a recent statement, Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar firmly dismissed rumors of replacing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, asserting that Siddaramaiah will remain in his position despite mounting pressure from opposition parties and internal dissent within the ruling Congress party.
Shivakumar made these remarks on Tuesday in Raichur, responding to calls for Siddaramaiah’s resignation linked to allegations in the MUDA site allotment case. The Deputy CM emphasized that Siddaramaiah is not implicated in the case, stating, “There is no need for anyone from Congress to discuss or hold meetings. The chief minister has nothing to do with it. The investigation is ongoing as per the law. Let’s wait and see.”
The show of support for Siddaramaiah comes amidst intensified scrutiny following charges against the Chief Minister regarding the allocation of 14 sites to his wife, Parvathi B.M., by the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). The Lokayukta and Enforcement Directorate are currently probing the case, which also names Siddaramaiah’s relatives and associates as accused parties.
The Deputy Chief Minister’s comments were a direct response to statements from senior Congress leader and former Speaker K.B. Koliwad, who criticized Siddaramaiah and suggested his resignation to prevent further embarrassment to the party. Koliwad pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on the MUDA issue during the Haryana elections had negatively impacted Congress’s prospects.
Addressing speculations about an internal agreement for a rotational Chief Ministership, Shivakumar clarified, “Any discussions about a 2.5-year agreement are separate matters. Our government and Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister will remain intact.” He also dismissed rumors about other potential candidates for the CM position, including Minister Satish Jarkiholi, reaffirming, “Our Chief Minister is Siddaramaiah. We are working under him and will continue to do so.”
The political landscape within the Karnataka Congress has been tense, with Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah previously vying for the Chief Minister’s role following the Assembly elections last May. Although there were unconfirmed reports of a compromise based on a rotational formula, Shivakumar’s latest statements leave no room for uncertainty regarding the current leadership.
In addition to internal party matters, Shivakumar commented on recent election outcomes in Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir. While expressing disappointment over Congress’s performance in Haryana, he acknowledged the expected success of the INDI Alliance in Jammu & Kashmir, commending the electorate for upholding democratic values.
As the party navigates these challenges, Shivakumar assured that the Congress leadership is committed to addressing the issues transparently and effectively, ensuring stability in Karnataka’s governance.
