Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has dismissed speculations of a leadership change. He has clearly stated that he will remain the Chief Minister for the full five-year term, and the next assembly elections will also be fought under his leadership.
Karnataka: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has completely put an end to the speculations of a leadership change. He has clearly stated that he will remain the Chief Minister for five years, and the next assembly elections will also be fought under the leadership of the Congress. This statement is considered significant amidst the speculations surrounding Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar's visit to Delhi and the meetings of both leaders with Rahul Gandhi.
Political Speculation Increased with the Presence of Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar in Delhi
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar are both currently in Delhi. The Deputy CM is staying in the newly constructed CM suite, while CM Siddaramaiah is staying in the old suite. Both senior leaders have also requested time for separate meetings with senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.
These meetings and the Delhi visit have fueled speculations of a leadership change in Karnataka's government in political circles. There were speculations that Siddaramaiah might be called for a central role and D.K. Shivakumar could be made the Chief Minister.
"The chair is not empty," said Siddaramaiah
In an exclusive conversation with India Today's senior journalist Rajdeep Sardesai, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah dismissed all these speculations. He said in clear terms, "The chair is not empty yet. I will remain the Chief Minister for five years, and I will also contest the next assembly elections under the leadership of the Congress."
Described BJP's Allegations as Political Rhetoric
The Chief Minister completely rejected the allegations made by the BJP, such as the 70 percent commission government. He called it normal political rhetoric from the opposition. He said that the public is benefiting from our schemes, and there is no public opposition (Anti-Incumbency) against the government.
Called D.K. Shivakumar a 'Legend'
Siddaramaiah also praised his deputy D.K. Shivakumar. He said, "D.K. Shivakumar is a legend. He has a significant contribution to our government, and both of us are working together to take Karnataka forward."
It is noteworthy that since the Congress government came into power in May 2023, there has been a continuous discussion that there is an internal agreement between the two leaders to share power, in which both will hold the post of Chief Minister for two-and-a-half years. However, both leaders have denied this so far.
Shivakumar's Meeting with Priyanka Gandhi Fuels Discussions
D.K. Shivakumar arrived in Delhi on July 8 and met with Priyanka Gandhi. This meeting lasted for about 30 minutes, but Shivakumar did not share any pictures of it on social media, whereas he usually shares pictures of all his political meetings. This further fueled the speculations of a leadership change.
On the other hand, Siddaramaiah has also sought time to meet Rahul Gandhi, but he also wants to meet separately. Regarding these activities, there is discussion in political circles that the Congress high command is going to take a big decision regarding the leadership in Karnataka.
