Should the Congress High Command Resolve the Leadership Uncertainty in Karnataka?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Urgent need for clarity from Congress leadership regarding changes.
- Focus on pressing state issues like floods rather than leadership transitions.
- Parameshwara emphasizes the importance of unity among party members.
- The debate over the Lingayat community's religious status is ongoing.
- All developments will be noted by the high command for future actions.
Bengaluru, Oct 7 (NationPress) Addressing the ongoing leadership dispute and speculations of a 'November revolution' within the Congress party, Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara remarked that the high command may not wait for the Bihar elections to implement changes in Karnataka's leadership.
During a press conference in Bengaluru on Tuesday, Parameshwara urged the party leadership to resolve the current confusion regarding this issue.
In response to questions about rumors suggesting the high command's intention to postpone a leadership change until after the Bihar polls, he asserted, “There is no need to wait for elections to implement a leadership change. If the high command decides, modifications can occur immediately. In our state, all of us – including the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister, who is also the State President – have duties to perform. Currently, we must focus on the flood crisis affecting North Karnataka.”
“In South Karnataka, various issues persist, particularly in Bengaluru. Our primary focus should be on resolving these challenges. We should not prioritize leadership transitions at this time,” he emphasized.
“The high command is aware of ongoing developments. Right now, our main concern is the floods and other essential developmental projects,” he stated.
When asked if PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi’s call for clarity on leadership matters was warranted, Parameshwara responded, “Every day, we witness various statements in the media. It is reasonable to seek clarity. The high command will make the ultimate decision, and they are aware of all these developments.”
“The high command understands which actions to take at the right moment, and they will proceed accordingly. I also appeal to the leadership to clarify the leadership situation in the state,” Parameshwara added.
Discussing the demand for separate religious recognition for the Lingayat community, he stated, “Firstly, the debate on whether Veerashaiva and Lingayat are distinct needs resolution. They will need to address this matter. Daily, we hear claims that Veerashaivas and Lingayats are separate. Once a definitive position is established, everything will fall into place.”
Commenting on CM Siddaramaiah’s declaration that Lingayat is a separate religion, Parameshwara said, “CM Siddaramaiah was invited to a community event, which he attended. To my knowledge, he has not made any religious statements. His assurance regarding renaming ‘Namma Metro’ to ‘Basava Metro’ will be brought to the cabinet for consideration, and a decision will follow.”