Is There Really No Internal Rift in Congress According to Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah?

Bengaluru, June 27 (NationPress) Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday refuted comments made by Minister K.N. Rajanna that hinted at potential political shifts in Karnataka, suggesting such remarks should be disregarded and affirming that there is no internal discord within the state unit.

He made these statements while addressing the media after offering floral tributes at the statue of Nadaprabhu Kempe Gowda in celebration of his 516th birth anniversary near the eastern entrance of Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru.

Responding to inquiries regarding Minister Rajanna, who is a close associate, claiming that significant political changes are imminent, CM Siddaramaiah clarified that Rajanna merely suggested that "there could be some political developments in the state, not that anything concrete is guaranteed."

The CM advised that Rajanna's remarks should be taken lightly when questioned on their implications.

Minister K.N. Rajanna had ignited a political discussion the previous day by asserting that notable changes would unfold in the state after September, leading to speculation of internal disagreements within the Congress party.

Rajanna, who had remained quiet following a recent controversy, had previously expressed his readiness to assume the role of state Congress President, currently held by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, and even indicated a willingness to resign from his ministerial position.

During his media interactions, Rajanna stated, "Let September come – you will see remarkable transformations. A revolution is on the horizon." When asked if he was alluding to changes in state politics, he confirmed affirmatively, stating, "Yes, I'm referring to state politics. Everything will unfold after September." Additionally, he mentioned that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is operating under pressure.

In an effort to quell the rumors sparked by Rajanna's comments, CM Siddaramaiah asserted that there is nothing significant to interpret.

Speaking on the legacy of Kempe Gowda, CM Siddaramaiah emphasized that Gowda was a visionary leader and is acknowledged as the founder of modern-day Bengaluru.

The government's celebration of Kempe Gowda's 516th birth anniversary is being conducted in collaboration with the Kempe Gowda Development Authority and BBMP.

The CM reminisced that during his previous term as Chief Minister (2013-18), his government, after consulting with the Adichunchanagiri Mutt pontiff Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji, verified Kempe Gowda's date of birth and began officially commemorating the occasion.

He highlighted that Bengaluru's current international recognition can be attributed to the foundational work of Kempe Gowda.

CM Siddaramaiah further added that the government is dedicated to preserving Kempe Gowda's legacy, noting that Gowda constructed watchtowers to oversee the city and had a clear vision for Bengaluru's administration. Under his governance, he established various local markets like Nagarathpet, Chickpet, and Balepet, setting a standard for exemplary administration.

"Our government is committed to actualizing the dream of advancing Bengaluru," the Chief Minister stated. The principal celebration of Kempe Gowda Jayanti took place at Jagajeevan Ram Nagar in Sumanahalli.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar also paid his respects at the statue of Kempegowda situated near the Bengaluru airport.