Mysuru, Karnataka – In a clear statement addressing the swirling rumors within the Karnataka Congress, Senior Minister Satish Jarkiholi affirmed that Siddaramaiah will continue as the Chief Minister of Karnataka. Speaking to reporters in Mysuru, Jarkiholi dismissed any notions of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar taking over the reins, emphasizing that the party’s central leadership has not entertained such discussions.
Jarkiholi, a prominent leader from northern Karnataka and a key player in the party’s internal strategies, addressed the mounting pressure on Siddaramaiah following allegations in the MUDA case. Despite opposition calls for Siddaramaiah’s resignation, Jarkiholi reiterated the party’s unwavering support for the incumbent CM.
“We have complete confidence in Siddaramaiah’s leadership. There have been no talks about replacing him with D.K. Shivakumar or anyone else,” Jarkiholi stated. He further clarified that any speculation regarding a rotational chief minister formula remains unverified and unofficial.
The backdrop to Jarkiholi’s assertion includes intense competition between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, a respected leader from the influential Vokkaliga community. Last year’s assembly elections saw the Congress navigating this rivalry by appointing Shivakumar as Deputy Chief Minister, quelling initial reports of a potential leadership shuffle.
Amidst internal meetings and strategic discussions, including recent talks between Jarkiholi, Home Minister G. Parameshwara, and Social Welfare Minister Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa, there has been heightened speculation about possible leadership changes. However, Jarkiholi firmly ruled out any imminent alterations, stressing that the current government structure remains intact.
Parameshwara, addressing light-hearted queries about internal discussions, remarked, “It is good to have conversations, but nothing substantial is decided. The high command oversees all decisions.”
Meanwhile, opposition parties have intensified their demands for a Dalit/ST Chief Minister, adding to the political pressure on the Congress leadership. In response, BJP’s Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, R. Ahoka, criticized the Congress for internal power struggles, suggesting that the party is scrambling to secure its leadership amid potential defeats.
“Siddaramaiah is facing serious probes, and there are rumors about his resignation. Leaders are busy counting MLAs to secure their positions,” Ahoka commented, highlighting the instability within the Congress ranks.
Siddaramaiah himself is under scrutiny from the Lokayukta and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) over alleged irregularities in the allotment of land to his wife by the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). Despite these challenges, Jarkiholi remains steadfast in his support, assuring that Siddaramaiah will lead the state government without interruption.
As Karnataka navigates these turbulent political waters, all eyes remain on the Congress leadership to maintain stability and address the emerging challenges both from within and outside the party.
