Does the Final Decision on Leadership Rest with the High Command?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Final decisions on leadership issues remain with the Congress high command.
- Party discipline is crucial for maintaining order.
- Police transfers are currently paused except as needed.
- Allegations against police officers are being taken seriously.
- Efforts are underway to resolve the sugarcane pricing problem.
Bengaluru, Nov 4 (NationPress) Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara addressed the ongoing leadership dispute on Tuesday, emphasizing that the ultimate decision rests with the Congress high command.
While speaking to the media, Parameshwara remarked: "I've consistently stated that the final decision is with the High Command. Members of the Congress party honor the High Command's decisions."
He added, "Though this has been reiterated numerous times, the topic keeps resurfacing. The Congress High Command upholds discipline — any decision made there will be adhered to. Anyone who does not comply will face disciplinary measures. This has been our longstanding tradition."
Parameshwara also supported Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s recent statements, asserting: "The Chief Minister has confirmed that he will respect the High Command’s decision — this statement is accurate. He has expressed this before and is reiterating it now."
When asked about Congress leaders traveling to Delhi, he responded: "I am unaware of who is going. I have no immediate plans to visit Delhi, but I will go if necessary."
Regarding the potential impact of denying senior ministers Cabinet roles on transfers, he said: "Transfers are conducted based on departmental needs. Except for the Police Department, transfers in all other departments are currently paused. There is no specific timeline for police transfers; they are ongoing as required."
On whether senior ministers might be removed from the Cabinet, he stated: "That decision is not mine to make. It lies with the Chief Minister and the High Command."
Additionally, Parameshwara instructed the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner to compile a comprehensive report regarding allegations of a domestic worker being unlawfully detained and assaulted by officers at the Varthur Police Station.
He noted, "This incident has caught my attention. I have requested a report from the Police Commissioner. Once I receive the report, stringent action will be taken against any officers found culpable."
Concerning the sugarcane farmers’ protest in Bagalkot, he remarked: "I have communicated with Sugar Minister Shivanand Patil. I have instructed him to address the issue promptly by setting and regulating sugarcane prices. Ministers from the region will conduct meetings with sugar factory representatives to find a resolution."
He added, "During yesterday’s protest, one farmer attempted suicide by consuming poison, but our police intervened and saved him. We will ensure such incidents do not happen again."