Siddaramaiah Rejects Leadership Change Rumors
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed that he will stay in office for the full five-year term. In an interview with an English news channel, he dismissed ongoing rumors about a change in the state’s leadership.
He refuted allegations that Congress high command requested him to resign and pave the way for Deputy CM DK Shivakumar. "I will remain CM for five years. I've repeated this before also. On July 2, I made a statement regarding this. DK Shivakumar was also there then. He's also in the running, and there's nothing bad in that. He himself declared, 'The chair is not vacant now,'" Siddaramaiah said.
No Timeframe for Power Sharing, States CM
Siddaramaiah made it clear that the party leadership has not devised any timeframe or strategy for changing the Chief Minister's seat. He did not comment on any decision being made regarding a two-and-a-half-year power sharing. If the party leadership makes any decision, they will apprise them of it, and it will be done as such.
He further stated that Congress General Secretary Randeep Surjewala has not expressed concerns regarding the leadership crisis. Siddaramaiah admitted that there are MLAs who are with DK Shivakumar. He further stated that he has applied for a meeting with Rahul Gandhi but it has yet to be confirmed.
State Finances Stable, CM Says
Siddaramaiah had declared that the financial health of Karnataka was good. He has claimed that the state is in a position to handle funds and possess healthy reserves. Although there are certain issues, the state is not in a financial crisis.
He had also charged the central government with abusing probe agencies. He has alleged that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is selectively targeting Congress leaders.
Shivakumar Reacts with Disappointment
After Siddaramaiah confirmed his intention to continue as CM, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar responded with visible disappointment. He said that his efforts may have failed, but not his prayers. Since Congress took power in Karnataka, there have been ongoing discussions suggesting a possible leadership change after two and a half years.
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