Davanagere (Karnataka), Feb 7 (NationPress) The internal conflict within the Congress party in Karnataka is poised to escalate, as Basavaraj V. Shivaganga, an MLA from Channagiri and a supporter of Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar, remarked that the comments made by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s son, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, regarding the leadership situation should not be taken seriously.

This development could heighten the discord between the factions supporting Shivakumar and those backing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

It is noteworthy that Yathindra Siddaramaiah indicated that the party leadership had ignored calls for a change in Chief Minister, asserting that his father would serve the complete term. This was in response to Basavaraj’s previous statement urging the high command to intervene and clarify the leadership dilemma in the state.

Addressing the media on Saturday, Basavaraj emphasized that his comments should carry weight as he is an MLA and thus has a vote in determining the Chief Ministerial candidate, unlike Yathindra Siddaramaiah, who is an MLC without such a vote.

“Why should you (media) pay attention to his statements when he lacks a vote?” he questioned, taking a jab at Yathindra Siddaramaiah.

He alleged that Yathindra Siddaramaiah has consistently claimed that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah would remain in office for five years.

“The party leadership is aware of Yathindra Siddaramaiah’s remarks. Key figures like Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Priyanka Gandhi are involved. The party must clarify whether a power-sharing deal exists,” he stated.

Basavaraj accused Yathindra Siddaramaiah of repeatedly making statements detrimental to the party, as previously mentioned by D. K. Shivakumar.

“We have a robust party leadership. Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are present. The leadership needs to promptly clarify the agreement. If not, Siddaramaiah should unequivocally state that no agreement exists, and then none of us will question it,” he remarked.

Returning to the leadership topic, Shivaganga reiterated that his comments should be prioritized as he possesses a vote, while Yathindra Siddaramaiah does not.

“Why do you consider his statements when he does not even have a vote?” he reiterated.

Basavaraj further asserted that a power-sharing agreement for two-and-a-half years had already been established, claiming to have information supporting this.

He stated that Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar has the backing of 139 MLAs.

“Approximately 40 to 50 young MLAs, like myself, are committed to following whatever D. K. Shivakumar directs. We are even willing to sacrifice our lives for him. Based on the information I have, a power-sharing agreement has been finalized,” he expressed.

He also mentioned that he vowed for D. K. Shivakumar to become Chief Minister.

“I am fulfilling a vow by wearing a sacred thread and making a commitment. Our leadership is very strong. Just wait, they will address Yathindra Siddaramaiah,” he asserted.

Shivaganga welcomed the notice issued to him, stating that he was not treated differently due to being the Chief Minister’s son.

“Even ministers have faced removal for opposing the party leadership. Therefore, everything is closely monitored by the leadership,” he concluded.