Bengaluru, 30 June

Amid growing speculation over a potential change in Karnataka’s leadership, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge clarified that any decision lies solely with the party high command and warned against unnecessary disruption.

His remarks came after some state Congress leaders suggested that Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar might replace Chief Minister Siddaramaiah later this year, reviving rumours of a power-sharing formula agreed upon in 2023.

Kharge, responding to media queries, said AICC General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala was in Bengaluru to meet party legislators and submit a report to the high command. “Based on his feedback, the party will decide the next steps,” he said.

Meanwhile, CM Siddaramaiah reaffirmed the government's stability, asserting that the Congress-led administration would remain “solid as a rock” for five years. Appearing with Shivakumar in Mysuru, he dismissed rumours of a rift, stating, “We are on good terms.” The duo even raised each other’s hands to signal unity.

Siddaramaiah, speaking to reporters in Mysuru, said, "He is the AICC General Secretary in-charge. He will seek the opinion of MLAs, hear their concerns, and assess what needs to be done to strengthen the organisation. He will do his job."

Home Minister G Parameshwara urged party leaders to respect internal boundaries. While noting that expressing opinions isn’t wrong, he warned against crossing the “Lakshman Rekha” set by the party. He added that the high command would address the matter, especially in light of recent statements by MLAs H A Iqbal Hussain and K N Rajanna, who hinted at leadership changes post-September.

Internal dissent has also surfaced in recent weeks. Congress MLA BR Patil alleged bribery in the housing sector, while MLA Raju Kage expressed frustration over administrative delays.

Despite these internal challenges, Congress leaders stressed that the state government is functioning effectively. Siddaramaiah hit out at the BJP for trying to exploit the situation, labelling their claims “baseless” and accusing them of spreading lies.

On questions about the upcoming Mysuru Dasara inauguration, Siddaramaiah confirmed he would preside over the event as Chief Minister.