Bengaluru, Feb 24 (NationPress) In light of recent controversial remarks from ministers and MLAs regarding leadership, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar emphasized on Tuesday that it is the Chief Minister who bears the duty of overseeing ministers and legislators.

While addressing the media outside his official residence in Bengaluru, Shivakumar fielded questions concerning ongoing political talks about a potential leadership transition and the demand for a Dalit Chief Minister.

“It is the Chief Minister's obligation to manage ministers and MLAs. As the party president, I am conveying party-related issues to the high command,” he stated.

Shivakumar highlighted his weekly discussions with senior Congress leader and Minister for PWD, Satish Jarkiholi, a firm ally of CM Siddaramaiah. “Jarkiholi is a senior figure who has collaborated with me as a working president. We converse weekly, share similar viewpoints, and he is genuinely invested in the party's welfare. We are strategizing to regain governmental power,” he remarked.

When questioned about Minister for Social Welfare H.C. Mahadevappa's strong call for a Dalit CM should CM Siddaramaiah resign, Shivakumar quipped that Mahadevappa might have insights about a potential change in the Chief Minister's position, which could explain his advocacy for a Dalit Chief Minister.

“I have noted Mahadevappa's remarks. Beyond that, there hasn't been further discussion. Since he is part of our high command, he may possess knowledge about a change in leadership. However, I am not privy to any such information,” he clarified.

Regarding inquiries about whether the party high command summoned him and the Chief Minister to Delhi, Shivakumar commented, “I have not received any call. My visit to Delhi pertains to matters concerning my department. We are allocating Rs 1 lakh crore for urban development schemes, and there are concerns regarding the adequacy of support for major cities. I will engage with officials and request proposals for the development of tier-2 and tier-3 cities.”

In response to reports that some MLAs had written to the high command requesting ministerial roles for newer legislators, Shivakumar expressed his support for introducing new faces into the Cabinet. “I read about the letter in the news, but I haven't received it myself. Everyone aspires to be a minister. Narendra Modi became the Chief Minister without initially being an MLA. Aspiration is natural. I also became a minister as a first-time MLA. A new generation must emerge. How long can we hold positions? I have served as a minister for 36 years. New ideas and perspectives are essential. The party will determine this,” he stated.

When asked if new legislators would be included in the Cabinet, Shivakumar reiterated that the decision rests with the Chief Minister. “I haven't claimed I will form the Cabinet. The Chief Minister has indicated he will expand the Cabinet. When discussions occur, some individuals write letters, travel to Delhi, and express their hopes. It is only natural for them to have such expectations,” he added.

Shivakumar also mentioned that the state government is investing Rs 5,065 crore into road development in Bengaluru, with Rs 2,000 crore allocated by the Chief Minister. He noted that 75% of the work is completed and instructed officials to finish all projects by the end of April without sacrificing quality.

He added that 10 lakh e-Khata documents will be distributed, and welfare initiatives will be rolled out to aid 30,000 registered street vendors by providing vehicles to support their livelihoods.

In response to BJP protests regarding unfilled government positions, Shivakumar assured that recruitment would commence soon. “They are questioning us now, but why didn’t they act earlier? We will shortly address the vacant roles. Our Yuva Nidhi scheme is aimed at assisting unemployed youth. Some delays have occurred due to internal reservations and other issues,” he explained.

When discussing expectations from the upcoming state budget, Shivakumar stressed the importance of confidentiality in the budgetary process. “Neither the Chief Minister nor ministers can disclose budget details beforehand. Maintaining confidentiality is crucial. The cabinet will approve the budget before it is presented. The Chief Minister, who also oversees finance, will handle the budget in light of the numerous challenges facing the state,” he added.

Shivakumar also clarified that he had no additional insights regarding statements made by Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi regarding the resolution of internal party matters.