Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday urged the Congress high command to take a firm decision to end ongoing speculation over a possible change in leadership. Rumours about his replacement intensified after several MLAs loyal to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi last week, fuelling political buzz as the government completes two and a half years in office.
Siddaramaiah called the discussion an “unnecessary debate,” insisting that the final decision rests with the party leadership. He also linked the fresh round of speculation to ongoing talks about a cabinet reshuffle, noting that two of Karnataka’s 34 ministerial posts remain vacant and must be filled soon. Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have publicly stated that they will abide by whatever decision the high command makes.
Karnataka Minister Shivanand Patil added to the ongoing chatter by claiming many leaders are in the race for the chief ministerial role, asking, “What’s wrong with aspiring for the post?”
Meanwhile, party in-charge Randeep Surjewala has dismissed reports of leadership change as media speculation. He criticised the BJP for spreading misinformation and warned Congress leaders against making unnecessary public remarks on internal matters.
