Amidst the ongoing power tussle within the Karnataka Congress, Home Minister G. Parameshwara has urged the party's high command to resolve the leadership issue before the upcoming budget. Parameshwara expressed confidence that the Congress high command is fully aware of the developments in Karnataka and will make an appropriate decision within a week.
The Karnataka Congress has been grappling with internal strife and speculation regarding a potential change in leadership, fueled by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar's aspirations for the Chief Minister's position and meetings with central leaders. Shivakumar has reportedly been trying to reach out to Rahul Gandhi, and has made it clear that promises made to him 2.5 years ago should be fulfilled. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, on the other hand, has dismissed the leadership chatter, stating that recent discussions have revolved around a cabinet reshuffle.
Parameshwara, himself a contender for the Chief Minister's post, has spoken highly of both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. He acknowledged Shivakumar's legitimate claim to the position, stating that there is nothing wrong with him expressing his aspirations. He also emphasized that any transition should be smooth and carried out with Siddaramaiah's consent. Parameshwara added that if given the opportunity, he would serve the people of Karnataka well, but insisted he would not lobby for the post and would accept the high command's final decision.
Adding another layer to the situation, a senior Congress MLA, K.N. Rajanna, suggested dissolving the Assembly if the leadership issue remains unresolved, calling for a fresh mandate from voters. While backing Siddaramaiah to continue as Chief Minister, Rajanna also stated that Parameshwara could be the second option.
The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has criticized the Congress for its internal discord, alleging that it has stalled governance in the state. Senior BJP MLA Mahesh Tenginkai stated that the divisions within the Congress were becoming increasingly visible and would create major cracks in the coming days, severely impacting the state's politics.
Parameshwara stated he was not aware of any power-sharing formula between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, and said there was no mention of rotating the Chief Minister's post during the Congress Legislative Party meeting after last year's Assembly elections. He noted that recent claims of a possible agreement between the two leaders must be examined by the high command.
Amidst the uncertainty, the Congress high command has summoned top leaders to Delhi to resolve the confusion. With the budget preparation underway, Parameshwara's call to end the confusion underscores the need for a swift resolution to ensure stability and effective governance in Karnataka. The coming days are crucial as the Congress high command deliberates and seeks to find a solution acceptable to all parties involved.
