Karnataka Minister: No Requirement for Permanent State President

Synopsis
In a recent statement, Karnataka's Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao emphasized that no individual is permanently required to serve as the state Congress President. He highlighted that leadership changes are a natural part of the political process and confirmed that decisions regarding the presidency remain with the party's high command.
Key Takeaways
- Dinesh Gundu Rao asserts no permanent holder of party President role.
- Leadership changes are recognized as normal.
- Shivakumar has been successful but is subject to review.
- High command's decision is final regarding the President's position.
- Allegations against Shivakumar are denied and under investigation.
Bengaluru, March 31 (NationPress) Indicating a fresh wave of political maneuvering within Karnataka's ruling Congress, Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao stated on Monday that there is no mandate for a single individual to hold the position of the party's state President indefinitely.
When asked about the potential change in the leadership of the state Congress unit, currently held by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, the Minister remarked: "It is not feasible for one person to remain as the KPCC (Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee) President eternally. Changes occur naturally. D.K. Shivakumar has performed admirably and has successfully organized the party. Nonetheless, we have no confusion regarding the transition of President."
"The high command is not known for making impulsive choices. This matter is internal to our party. The decision on the President's change will be made by the high command. The role of KPCC President is not a permanent or lifetime position. There is no stipulation that a single person must retain the role indefinitely. The high command will determine if the current President will stay or if a new one will be appointed."
"Regardless of who steps into the role of President, differing opinions will always exist. The ultimate decision lies with the high command. There is no stipulation that a single person must hold the position for life," he reiterated.
Minister for Large and Medium Industries M.B. Patil, when questioned about the leadership transition within the state party, opted to evade the subject, noting that the high command will make the relevant decision.
These statements have gained significance as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is set to visit New Delhi shortly after a considerable time.
Previously, Cooperation Minister K.N. Rajanna and PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi vociferously demanded Shivakumar's replacement as the state President. They asserted that the high command had committed to keeping Shivakumar in the position until the Lok Sabha elections, but he has remained in the role even after the elections.
Rajanna, who recently made headlines by alleging a honey trap attempt by political adversaries and has filed a petition with Home Minister G. Parameshwara, even mentioned he would resign from his ministerial role if appointed as state President.
Additionally, Rajanna’s son, Rajendra Rajanna, has lodged a police complaint claiming there was an attempt on his life. The police have initiated action against five individuals in this matter.
Shivakumar has refuted all allegations directed at him, asserting that the police investigation will reveal the truth.