Is Congress Worried About Leadership Shift in Karnataka?

Bengaluru, July 11 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister and Congress state leader D.K. Shivakumar stated on Friday that his party is not concerned regarding any leadership transition in the state.

“Why should we be anxious about our situation? Congress is not troubled by any leadership changes in the state. The Chief Minister has already addressed your inquiries,” the Deputy Chief Minister remarked to reporters at the Kempegowda International Airport.

When questioned about Siddaramaiah’s comment suggesting that Shivakumar has support from only a handful of MLAs, he responded, “I am the party's state president. I will abide by whatever the party decides. I have seen the Chief Minister’s statement. Since he has addressed your questions, it is inappropriate for me to revisit this topic. Additionally, it’s not fitting for you to keep asking about it.”

In response to speculation that many desire him to become Chief Minister, Shivakumar stated, “Just like many of you have your own ambitions, others have theirs too. Those who have spoken have already addressed the questions. I have nothing further to add at this moment.”

Regarding his visit to Delhi, Shivakumar mentioned, “We discussed assigning positions to our party workers. All MLAs expressed their opinions. Those who have dedicated themselves to the party at the taluk and district levels, and those to whom we have made commitments, should be accommodated. This process is nearing its conclusion, and we will submit the proposal to Delhi once more for approval.”

On his meetings with union ministers, Shivakumar stated that their Delhi trip concerning irrigation projects was largely successful, with the Centre responding positively to Karnataka’s plea regarding the Yettinahole project.

“We met Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil to discuss issuing a notification about the Krishna Tribunal verdict and held talks on the appraisal report of the Mekedatu project. We also engaged with Union Forest Minister Bhupender Yadav concerning the Kalasa-Banduri issue,” he explained.

“I also consulted with Union Minister Prahlad Joshi on this matter. He recommended reconciliation between the two states. We have approached the Supreme Court, and there are technical aspects involved. We communicated that the show-cause notice issued by Goa is inappropriate and discussed this with legal experts,” he added.

When inquired about the opposition to constructing a dam at Lakkenahalli under the Yettinahole project, Shivakumar said, “Every project, whether it’s roads or dams, faces opposition. However, we must ensure the drinking water supply. This water needs to be stored somewhere. We have also examined other locations in Koratagere. It’s hard to predict how water will flow. I will discuss this with Parameshwara and raise it in the next cabinet meeting.”