Bengaluru, Oct 24 (NationPress) In the midst of the ongoing leadership debate in Karnataka, Social Welfare Minister H.C. Mahadevappa stated on Friday that no individual is critical to the Congress, emphasizing that the party and its leaders will make necessary decisions as needed.

While addressing reporters in Bengaluru, Mahadevappa — who is a close ally of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah — made comments that carry significant political weight. He had previously advocated strongly for a Dalit Chief Minister should there be a shift in leadership within the state.

When asked about Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s son and Congress MLA Yathindra Siddaramaiah endorsing Minister Satish Jarkiholi as a potential successor, despite ongoing calls for a Dalit CM, Mahadevappa indicated that this sentiment was not expressed by the party's top leadership.

“Has this opinion been voiced by the high command? Why should it concern you? There are numerous members within the party who are ideologically driven — in fact, many. The Congress party thrives on its ideology. No one is irreplaceable. When former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi passed away, doubts arose about future leadership, yet many leaders came forth. Hence, no one is inevitable in the Congress,” Mahadevappa asserted.

He reiterated that the AICC and state leadership would determine the party’s trajectory in Karnataka. “Beyond the decisions made by the Chief Minister, the State Congress President, and the AICC, other declarations lack significance. It becomes meaningless if individuals draw their own conclusions,” he noted.

Addressing Yathindra’s statements, Mahadevappa remarked, “Whoever made that comment should clarify the context. We are not informed about it.”

“The Chief Minister understands what should and shouldn’t happen. The high command and our party president are also aware of the current developments. We haven’t been consulted or informed regarding this matter so far,” he added.

In a notable update, Yathindra recently expressed that his father is nearing the end of his political journey and that, at this pivotal moment, PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi would take the lead in guiding those who follow “scientific and progressive thought.”

Yathindra stated, “Today, my father is at the twilight of his political career. He is in the concluding phase of his political life. At this critical moment, for those who adopt scientific and progressive ideas... Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi will assume responsibility and provide leadership.”

These comments have gained importance amid ongoing speculation regarding a leadership change and discussions about a potential power-sharing agreement in Karnataka.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar, when asked about Yathindra’s remarks, refrained from commenting, stating he would relay the message to the relevant parties.

While speaking to the media in Bengaluru on Friday, Shivakumar stated, when asked if he would issue a notice to Yathindra: “I won’t address the matter at this moment. I will ensure the message reaches the right audience.”

“I uphold discipline. Discipline is paramount in my party,” Shivakumar emphasized.