Bengaluru, Oct 23 (NationPress) In response to remarks made by CM Siddaramaiah's son, MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah, regarding Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi as his father's potential successor, the Karnataka BJP criticized the Congress party on Thursday. They alleged that the Siddaramaiah faction is scheming to thwart Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar's chances of becoming CM.

During a press conference in Bengaluru, the Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, R. Ashoka, expressed, “Deputy CM Shivakumar anticipated serving as CM for half of the term in the Congress-led administration. His hopes are now dashed. The Siddaramaiah camp is orchestrating matters to ensure Shivakumar never ascends to the CM position.”

“CM Siddaramaiah is making comments through his son and other associates. I have consistently emphasized the impending November upheaval, which Congress leaders dismissed as mere fabrications. Why, then, are such statements being circulated?” Ashoka interrogated.

“Yathindra has ignited discussions about the potential downfall of this government. What was once dismissed as falsehood is becoming reality. Significant shifts are anticipated within the Congress party in November. Dy CM Shivakumar appears to be losing direction,” Ashoka added.

Former CM and BJP MP Jagadish Shettar remarked, “For the past several months, the topic of leadership in Karnataka has gained momentum. Internal discord within the Congress party is evident. Dy CM Shivakumar is striving to become CM. November is poised for dramatic developments within the ruling Congress party. We are approaching a critical juncture.”

Shettar further elaborated, “There was an agreement regarding a shared CM role for half terms between the CM and Dy CM. Currently, CM Siddaramaiah is reluctant to relinquish the role to Shivakumar. Even if he steps down, he desires a successor of his choosing. This has been communicated through his son, Yathindra, indicating Minister Satish Jarkiholi as the preferred candidate. Siddaramaiah is steadfast in not allowing Shivakumar to take the position. Internal strife might lead to the Congress government’s collapse.”

Union Minister of State V. Somanna stated, “The Congress party must evaluate what Dy CM Shivakumar has contributed to the party’s success in the state. Involving Minister Satish Jarkiholi is unnecessary. Satish himself has declared his intentions for 2028. Yathindra Siddaramaiah, why are you entangling yourself in this? Your father’s legacy is substantial; instead of focusing on personal growth, why create such controversies?”

BJP MLC C.T. Ravi asserted, “It is the populace, not individuals, who will determine the successor to CM Siddaramaiah. While Yathindra may be viewed as a potential successor, in a democracy, leadership is governed by the people.”

In a notable turn of events, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's son, MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah, recently commented that his father is nearing the end of his political journey. He stated that during this pivotal moment, Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi will lead those who uphold scientific and progressive ideologies.

Yathindra remarked, “Currently, my father is at the twilight of his political career. He is in the final phase of his political journey. At such a time, for those who value scientific and progressive thought, Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi will take on the leadership role.”

“Minister Satish Jarkiholi will also guide all those who resonate with the Congress party’s ideology. I firmly believe he will exemplify this leadership. It is uncommon to find leaders dedicated to their principles. Minister Satish Jarkiholi has embraced this responsibility, and I urge him to persist in his efforts in this direction,” Yathindra added.

Responding to the comments made by CM Siddaramaiah's son, Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain, a close ally of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, stated that Yathindra should avoid making “immature” remarks.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Hussain noted, “Yathindra Siddaramaiah should refrain from such statements. He hails from a family with a distinguished reputation and holds the highest position in the state. Such immature comments are unwarranted. I implore him not to sow confusion among us.”