Tumakuru, 18 May

Former Karnataka Minister KN Rajanna on Monday fuelled fresh speculation over a leadership change in the State, saying Home Minister G Parameshwara should become Chief Minister if Siddaramaiah steps down after the government’s third anniversary.

Speaking in Tumkur after the state government’s achievement ceremony, Rajanna said, “We are saying that if Siddaramaiah wants a change, Parameshwara should become CM.”

Recalling Parameshwara’s tenure as Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president, he said, “If he had won in 2013, he would have become CM. He didn't win then. The old dues are still pending.” Rajanna added, “Is it Siddaramaiah's house to give away? Is it property? Power is not anyone's property.”

He also hinted at discussions during the Kerala visit of senior Congress leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and DK Shivakumar. “My personal expectation is that it can be final now,” he said, adding that “three or four people will get together and talk for five minutes and come up with an opinion.”

“Whatever comes out of Rahul Gandhi's mouth will be implemented,” Rajanna said. The remarks came amid continuing Karnataka Congress discussions over possible power-sharing arrangements after the government completes three years in office soon.