Who Has the Courage to Replace CM Siddaramaiah in K'taka Congress Row?
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Synopsis
The Congress party in Karnataka is facing increasing internal conflict, with Minister B.Z. Zameer Khan questioning who has the courage to replace Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Amidst remarks from Siddaramaiah's son and calls for leadership change, the high command's authority remains central to the ongoing debate.
Key Takeaways
- The Congress party in Karnataka is experiencing significant internal strife.
- Zameer Khan's comments reflect the sentiments within Siddaramaiah's camp.
- Yathindra's statements suggest a firm stance against leadership changes.
- The high command's authority is central to any potential leadership changes.
- Comments from community leaders indicate support for Siddaramaiah's leadership.
Belagavi, Dec 11 (NationPress) The internal strife within the Congress party seems to be intensifying, with B.Z. Zameer Ahmae Khan, the Minister for Housing and Waqf, questioning who possesses the “guts” to take over from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Khan, known to be a close ally of Siddaramaiah, has his remarks interpreted as indicative of the mood within the Chief Minister's faction.
While addressing journalists in Belagavi, Khan made this statement in response to inquiries regarding a controversial comment made by Siddaramaiah’s son, Yathindra, suggesting that the high command has dismissed any potential leadership change.
“Yathindra shared his personal views. Why bring this discussion up now? Such matters should only be deliberated when the position is vacant. Everything else is just speculation. Does anyone truly have the courage to alter Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s position? The only authority that can enact such changes is the high command,” Khan stated.
Khan further reiterated that both Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar have consistently expressed their commitment to follow the high command’s directives, underscoring that only the high command holds the power to initiate any modifications.
When queried about the likelihood of Siddaramaiah serving the entire term, Khan asserted: “Siddaramaiah will remain Chief Minister until 2028. That is my personal stance.”
In related comments, Prasannananda Swamiji of Valmiki Peetha expressed no objections to Khan’s continued role, suggesting that if a change were to occur, a Dalit leader should be appointed as the next Chief Minister, highlighting the Congress's pool of capable Dalit leaders. He emphasized that the community stands firmly with Siddaramaiah regardless of who holds the Chief Minister’s position.
Conversely, Pranavananda Swamiji of Idiga Mutt stated: “Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar should ascend to the role of Chief Minister. If that does not materialize, the Congress will face destruction in Karnataka.”
Reports suggest that the Congress high command is facing renewed pressure following the latest events concerning the party's internal discord in Karnataka. After breakfast meetings led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar ahead of the Belagavi Winter Assembly session, the high command had briefly felt relieved.
However, fresh declarations from both factions—particularly from Siddaramaiah’s son Yathindra, who claimed that his father would complete his term and that the high command has rejected Shivakumar’s request for the Chief Minister’s position—have rekindled speculation regarding internal dissent within the ruling Congress.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the complexity of the current political landscape within Karnataka's Congress party. The remarks made by Minister Zameer Khan reflect a significant internal struggle and the challenges the party faces in maintaining unity. It is crucial for the party to navigate these waters carefully to avoid further fragmentation.
NationPress
13/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Zameer Khan say about replacing CM Siddaramaiah?
Zameer Khan questioned who has the 'guts' to replace Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, suggesting that only the high command holds the authority to make such changes.
What is the significance of Yathindra's comments?
Yathindra's comments indicate a dismissal of leadership change, reflecting his family's stance on maintaining Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister.
What do the Swamijis say about the leadership issue?
Prasannananda Swamiji supports Khan, suggesting a Dalit leader should succeed Siddaramaiah if a change occurs, while Pranavananda Swamiji believes Shivakumar should become Chief Minister to prevent Congress's downfall.
What is the current status of Congress's internal conflict?
The Congress high command is under pressure due to renewed internal disputes, especially following remarks from Siddaramaiah's son, reviving speculations about leadership stability.
When is Siddaramaiah expected to remain in power?
Minister Zameer Khan expressed his personal opinion that Siddaramaiah will serve as Chief Minister until 2028.
