The tussle over the Chief Minister's post continues in Karnataka Congress. Siddaramaiah stated that there is some confusion within the party and that he will respect the High Command's decision. MLAs are free to express their opinions, while cabinet reshuffles will only occur at the High Command's directive.
Karnataka: The tug-of-war over the Chief Minister's position in Karnataka Congress persists. On Tuesday, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah commented on the matter, stating that the party's High Command should quickly resolve this confusion. He clarified that he would respect the High Command's decision and act accordingly.
Siddaramaiah also stated that MLAs have the freedom to express their views. He informed that any cabinet reshuffle would only occur as per the High Command's directives, and no personal decision would be taken on this matter for now.
Rising Speculation in the Ruling Party
The Congress government in Karnataka reached the halfway mark of its five-year term on November 20. Amidst this, speculation regarding the Chief Minister's post has intensified within the ruling party. Reports suggest an alleged "power-sharing" agreement was made between Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar in 2023.
According to Shivakumar's supporters, they believe the party's High Command should make a quick decision regarding the Chief Minister's post. Meanwhile, reports have emerged of various groups of MLAs traveling to Delhi to meet with the High Command.
Freedom for MLAs to Express Opinions
Siddaramaiah stated that MLAs are free to share their opinions. He said, "Let them go, MLAs are free. Let's see what opinions they offer. Ultimately, the High Command has to make the decision. Whatever the High Command says, we will abide by it."
When asked if some MLAs had appealed to the High Command to resolve the matter immediately, he replied, "Whatever they want to say, let them tell the High Command. Ultimately, it is for the High Command to decide to end this confusion."
Shivakumar Supporters' Delhi Visit
According to party sources, a group of six Congress MLAs supporting Shivakumar met with the High Command in New Delhi on November 23. This group went to convey their opinions and suggestions regarding the Chief Minister's post to the High Command.
Furthermore, some more MLAs are likely to visit Delhi, favoring Shivakumar as CM. Last week, approximately ten MLAs traveled to Delhi to meet Rahul Gandhi and expressed their support for the Chief Minister's position.
Siddaramaiah stated that only the High Command's permission is necessary for any cabinet reshuffle or major decision. He informed that he currently has no plans to meet with top Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. His focus is on adhering to party directives and rules.
