Bengaluru, Dec 11 (NationPress) The ongoing leadership conflict in Karnataka has reignited as Congress MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah, the son of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, emphasized that the high command has dismissed any potential changes in leadership within the state.

This assertion holds weight as CM Siddaramaiah has reiterated his commitment to adhere to the high command's directives regarding any alterations in leadership.

The situation escalated further when Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar requested clarification from the Chief Minister on this matter.

During a press conference in Belagavi on Thursday, Yathindra responded to inquiries concerning a leadership shift, stating, “There is no contention for the CM’s position. I have previously mentioned that everything is clarified. The high command has explicitly indicated that, for the time being, there will be no modifications in leadership.”

In response, Deputy CM Shivakumar remarked, “I believe the CM will address this on his behalf.”

This development is anticipated to escalate the leadership discourse within the party, especially considering that Shivakumar is seen as a formidable candidate for the Chief Minister’s role.

Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh, a close ally of Siddaramaiah, stated, “Siddaramaiah will operate according to the high command’s instructions. No decisions have been made regarding a leadership transition. We will adhere to what the CM articulates. Whatever the CM and the high command communicate, we will comply.”

Excise Minister R.B. Timmapur added that Siddaramaiah has previously affirmed his commitment to follow the high command's decisions, and that Shivakumar has also expressed his intention to abide by the party's directives. “The high command will make decisions after considering the opinions of the MLAs,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain, a staunch advocate of Dy CM Shivakumar, commented, “When we discuss leadership, notices are issued. Our high command is powerful, not feeble. There is discipline within the Congress party, and we are dedicated to that discipline. No one can override the high command.”

“If we voice our opinions, it's deemed outrageous; if he (the CM’s son) speaks, it’s perceived as magical. He should comprehend the context before making remarks. We should all be aware of our positions,” he added.

The recent tensions escalated following Yathindra's assertion on Monday that those anticipating a change in the Chief Minister's position are “dreaming.” He reiterated that the Congress high command has already clarified that there will be no modifications in the state’s leadership.

Yathindra declared, “Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has expressed his aspirations for the CM position. In response, the high command has stated that this is not the right moment and has confirmed that there will be no changes in the Chief Minister.”

He concluded, “This matter is settled. Thus, there is no ongoing contention. Opposition parties are unnecessarily propagating rumors and shaping perceptions.”

The internal strife within the Congress in Karnataka intensified after Yathindra Siddaramaiah reaffirmed his contentious statement that the high command did not entertain Shivakumar’s aspirations to become Chief Minister and that his father would fulfill the entire term.

Speaking to reporters at Suvarna Soudha in Belagavi, Yathindra stated, “I stand by my words. I have communicated everything I needed to express. I will refrain from responding to further statements. There is nothing more to discuss. I cannot continue to react to every comment. Let anyone say whatever they wish.”