Bengaluru, Oct 23 (NationPress) Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain, a close ally of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, stated that Yathindra Siddaramaiah ought to avoid making naive statements. This remark came in response to comments made by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's son, MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah, who mentioned that his father is nearing the end of his political journey and that Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi is poised to be his successor.

While addressing reporters on Thursday, MLA Iqbal Hussain remarked, “Yathindra Siddaramaiah should refrain from making such comments. He comes from a family of high standing and the foremost position in the state. Such immature remarks are uncalled for and lack credibility. I urge him not to generate confusion among us.”

“Our leaders are more than capable of handling leadership matters. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is very much engaged and will make decisions as necessary. Yathindra should not be making statements regarding leadership,” Hussain added.

When questioned about the party's prior notice to him regarding his leadership comments, and why no actions were taken against Yathindra for similar remarks, MLA Hussain ironically noted, “It seems only my actions are scrutinized. If I say something, it becomes a major issue. I hope Yathindra Siddaramaiah will amend his errors,” he stated.

In response to the controversy, state Home Minister G. Parameshwara mentioned that Yathindra’s statement was made with ideological intentions. “He indicated that Minister Satish Jarkiholi will follow his father’s ideological path. It’s essential to recognize that Minister Jarkiholi played a significant role in organizing the AHINDA group,” Parameshwara explained.

For context, 'AHINDA' is a socio-political term primarily used in Karnataka, representing 'Alpasankhyataru' (Minorities), 'Hindulida Jaatigalu' (Backward Classes among Hindus), and 'Dalitaru' (Dalits). This term was popularized by former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to signify a political and social coalition of minorities, backward classes, and Dalits, which together constitute a substantial part of Karnataka’s demographic.

Parameshwara further clarified, “Since Minister Satish Jarkiholi was engaged in the AHINDA movement, his name was put forth by Yathindra. The statement wasn’t meant to imply anything about leadership. There’s nothing inappropriate about it.”

Minister for Large and Medium Industries M.B. Patil commented on Yathindra’s remarks, stating, “Minister Satish Jarkiholi possesses all the qualities necessary to become Chief Minister. This could be CM Siddaramaiah’s final term, yet his leadership will be vital for the 2028 Assembly elections. Siddaramaiah is a leader representing the backward classes and a mass leader. Minister Jarkiholi has consistently advocated for SC, ST, backward classes, and minorities. He deserves to become Chief Minister someday. However, the party and the high command will decide on the CM’s role,” he added.

Minister for Excise R.B. Timmapur noted that there are no current discussions about a change in the Chief Minister. “If there is to be a new CM, it must be elected in the Congress Legislature Party meeting. Yathindra’s statement is personal, and I am unaware of the context in which he made it. His opinion does not represent the AICC or the Congress Legislature Party’s position,” he stated.

In a significant development, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s son, MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah, recently claimed that his father is “at the end of his political career”. He further asserted that at this pivotal moment, Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi will lead those who embrace scientific and progressive thought.

The comments have gained attention amid speculations about a potential leadership transition and ongoing discussions concerning a power-sharing arrangement in Karnataka.

Yathindra stated, “Currently, my father is at the end of his political career. He is in the final phase of his political life. At this time, for those who uphold scientific and progressive ideas, Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi will assume responsibility and provide leadership.”

“Minister Satish Jarkiholi will also lead all those who believe in Congress party ideology. I trust that he will lead by example in this regard. It is uncommon to find leaders dedicated to ideology. Minister Satish Jarkiholi has taken on that responsibility, and I urge him to continue his efforts in this direction,” Yathindra concluded.