Mangaluru (Karnataka), Oct 27 (NationPress) - Indicating potential shifts in leadership within Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remarked on Saturday that he would only continue as Chief Minister for the complete five-year term if the Congress high command makes that determination.

While addressing the media in Mangaluru, Siddaramaiah responded to inquiries regarding his tenure, stating, "Only if the high command decides so."

Previously, CM Siddaramaiah had asserted his intention to fulfill the full term and lead the Congress party into the next Assembly elections, reiterating that any decision regarding the Chief Minister’s position will rest with the party high command.

This latest declaration has become significant amid ongoing speculations concerning a potential leadership change within the ruling Congress party. Sources suggest that Deputy Chief Minister and Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President D.K. Shivakumar is making substantial efforts to assume the Chief Minister role for the latter half of the term. The Karnataka government is set to reach the halfway mark of its term on November 20. Notably, Shivakumar traveled to Delhi on Sunday.

When questioned about the Deputy Chief Minister's supporters making claims regarding the Chief Minister’s post, Siddaramaiah remarked, "In a democratic setup, we cannot prevent those who are competing. It is their democratic right to aspire. While claims may be made regarding the Chief Minister’s position, the final decision will be made by the high command."

On the recurring nature of leadership discussions, Siddaramaiah humorously responded, "It is because the media keeps asking about it repeatedly."

Regarding the anticipated visit of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, he mentioned he had no information concerning it.

Responding to former minister K.N. Rajanna’s comment that Siddaramaiah should complete the full five-year term, the Chief Minister stated that it was Rajanna’s personal opinion.

When asked about the FIR filed against senior RSS functionary Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat, Siddaramaiah stated, "An FIR will be lodged against anyone delivering hate speeches. Anyone spreading hatred, rivalry, or disrupting peace will face action. Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat has made derogatory comments about women."

Regarding the Dharmasthala case, the Chief Minister said, "We will not intervene in the SIT investigation. Home Minister G. Parameshwara has indicated that the report is expected by October 31. Whether they submit it or not is up to them. They have informed the Home Minister, not me. We will not interfere."

When questioned about his frequent visits to Mangaluru, Siddaramaiah commented, "There is no specific target or reason. I had agreed to attend a function, and hence, I came."