Bengaluru, Feb 11 (NationPress) D.K. Suresh, former MP and brother of Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, remarked on Wednesday that the Congress party tends to give priority to individuals who have joined from outside the party.

This remark is seen in political circles as a subtle jab at Chief Minister Siddaramiah during a time of leadership conflict.

It's worth noting that CM Siddaramaiah entered the Congress after leaving the Janata Dal (Secular) party and has served as CM twice. Senior Congress members have consistently voiced their dissatisfaction over the preferential treatment given to Siddaramaiah, often feeling overlooked.

Suresh's comments came while addressing media inquiries near his residence in Bengaluru.

“The Congress party includes leaders from various religions and affiliations. We have individuals from the BJP, Janata Dal (Secular), BSP, among others. They receive priority over those already in Congress. The party aims to honor newcomers,” Suresh explained.

On being asked about Yathindra Siddaramaiah's recent remarks on leadership, he replied with irony, “The Deputy Chief Minister has already addressed this topic. We lack his extensive knowledge. Whatever he states is final for us.”

Regarding MLA Iqbal Hussain’s comments questioning why notices were issued to others but not to Yathindra, Suresh stated, “He is correct in what he has said. This policy should be uniformly applied. Since he represents the high command, there is no issue.”

Yathindra recently claimed that his father, CM Siddaramaiah, would complete his term and that the high command has dismissed any thoughts of leadership changes.

Suresh also addressed the state's decision to grant a minister-of-state rank to a BJP leader serving as board chairman, asserting, “Congress respects everyone. The Chief Minister likely made this move to foster inclusivity. There’s nothing wrong with that.”

When asked about his brother Shivakumar's recent trips to Delhi, he clarified, “He has communicated that he was invited for discussions about elections during his visits to Delhi. D.K. Shivakumar has been traveling there regularly for the past 40 years, typically once or twice a month. Now, as party president and Deputy Chief Minister, his visits are related to government matters.”

“Even when not political, he meets leaders for courtesy calls. He engages with Ministers during Parliament sessions regarding departmental matters, such as the Bhadra Upper Canal project and issues concerning Bengaluru. Therefore, his Delhi visits are not a new occurrence,” he added.

When questioned about potential political motives behind the Delhi trips, he asserted, “There’s no political agenda. All politics are media-driven in Karnataka.”

Addressing rumors that some MLAs are planning a foreign trip ahead of the Budget amidst discussions of leadership changes, he remarked, “Who is going on this trip? Why are you blaming Shivakumar for someone else's statements? D.K. Shivakumar has no ties to the MLAs' trip. I want to make this very clear.”

“The trip could be personal or sponsored by others. The KPCC President and Deputy Chief Minister are not involved in this. If rumors are circulating, they are politically motivated. Some may be attempting to tarnish Shivakumar’s image. I am unsure if these are our party members or from the Opposition. However, Shivakumar is not part of this,” Suresh emphasized.

When asked about earlier comments regarding patience from both him and Shivakumar, he stated, “Time will reveal everything.”

When queried if that time is imminent, he replied, “I sense it; you may feel it too.”

Discussing the postponement of the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) elections, he said, “The Congress party is gearing up for elections. We are preparing in our constituencies. Regardless of the outcome, local body elections must take place — this is my personal view.”

When reminded of Shivakumar’s statement that they have not discussed matters in secret but in front of high command leaders, he responded, “Shivakumar made that remark. What can I add?”

When asked if he believed the Chief Minister would honor his word, he said, “Even now, I trust that Siddaramaiah will uphold his commitment.”

Regarding the necessity of meeting high command leaders, he noted, “Whenever we visit Delhi and meet high command leaders, we discuss various topics. It’s part of our relationship. We cover party, constituency, and other issues. Some individuals visit Delhi for specific reasons. Shivakumar does not fit into that category.”