Bengaluru, Nov 24 (NationPress) In the midst of an ongoing leadership dispute, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who is also the state Congress president, confidently proclaimed that the Congress party will reclaim power in the 2028 Assembly elections. The announcement was made during the inauguration of several developmental initiatives in Shidlaghatta, located in the Chikkaballapur district.

CM Siddaramaiah remarked: “We have honored our electoral promises and delivered on our commitments. Thus, it is inevitable that the Congress government will be reinstated in 2028. We are dedicated to development-focused governance that unites people and communities. Additionally, we will implement measures to support the weaver community in Shidlaghatta. We are fulfilling our promises.”

He further stated, “When the BJP was in power, they neglected development. Throughout their tenure, not a single house was allocated by them. Currently, we are bringing development programs and welfare initiatives directly to the homes of our citizens. Unable to handle this, the BJP resorts to false accusations and seeks to sow division among the populace for their political advantage.”

“Every individual in society deserves economic empowerment. The true essence of freedom in our nation will only be realized when caste and class distinctions vanish. This is why our government has implemented initiatives for the underprivileged across all castes and religions. Our administration embraces inclusivity for all communities,” he emphasized.

In response to BJP’s claims of an empty treasury, Siddaramaiah highlighted the government’s progress through development initiatives. “Our funding and programs reach every household monthly. As long as we are in power, none of our guarantee schemes will cease. We are investing thousands of crores into minor irrigation, urban, and rural development. We have countered the BJP’s assertions about an ‘empty treasury’ with development projects amounting to one lakh crore,” he declared.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar remarked, “Opposition parties should stop dreaming, as the Congress will indeed return to power in the state by 2028 and continue serving the public.”

He added, “Restoring lakes is the sixth promise of our Congress administration. Our goal is to ensure water availability for both agricultural and drinking needs. As our seventh commitment, we have provided accounts to 1,11,11,111 individuals and secured land rights. Previously, we distributed 10 kg of rice, but due to some selling it, we are now planning to provide a kit with cooking oil and pulses. This initiative will soon reach everyone.”

“The state is witnessing a significant wave of development. The Congress government has allocated Rs 2,000 crore for projects even in constituencies held by opposition MLAs. This demonstrates our commitment to serving the people. Our entire administration is focused on the development of this constituency, reflecting our affection for the community,” he stated.

“Every woman in the state remembers our government fondly whenever funds are deposited into her account. They even pray for our well-being at holy sites. When Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar visited, women welcomed her with respect. The entire nation is observing the transformation we have brought into the lives of women,” he continued.

Earlier in the day, before attending the event, Siddaramaiah confirmed that he would remain as Chief Minister if the party high command decides so. He reiterated his commitment to following the high command’s directives.

These statements hold significant weight as Siddaramaiah previously claimed he would serve a full five-year term as Chief Minister and present the remaining budgets. He had a lengthy discussion with AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday night in Bengaluru.

When questioned about potential power-sharing arrangements and leadership changes, Siddaramaiah stated, “The high command will make the final decision on all matters. I will comply with their instructions. If they wish for me to continue as Chief Minister, I will do so. I will act in accordance with the high command’s guidance.”

“We will respect the high command's decisions. We have a high command, and if they determine that I should continue, I will. Ultimately, both D.K. Shivakumar and I need to align with the high command’s directives,” he concluded.