Bengaluru, Dec 13 (NationPress) In response to the comments made by Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar firmly stated on Saturday that his statements should not be taken seriously.

“You should not trust Iqbal Hussain's words. It's essential that legal action is initiated against him. Iqbal Hussain tends to talk excessively. Don't take him seriously,” asserted Shivakumar.

Previously, Iqbal Hussain suggested that the Chief Minister's role should be transferred to Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar.

“He deserves a chance. The high command is considering this request. There’s a possibility that Shivakumar could become Chief Minister on January 6, which are considered auspicious numbers for him. We are 140 MLAs strong, and the numerical strength does not overshadow our commitment to the Congress party's structure,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah indicated his willingness to adhere to the high command's direction regarding the leadership situation.

Another Congress MLA, Shivaganga Basavaraj, expressed his happiness at the prospect of Shivakumar taking over the Chief Minister’s position on January 6.

“Numbers 6 and 9 are numerologically favorable for Shivakumar. He holds a god-like status in my eyes,” he mentioned.

Despite the party leadership’s repeated requests to avoid discussing the ongoing leadership transition in Karnataka, Congress members continue to voice their opinions.

Iqbal Hussain, a dedicated supporter of Shivakumar, also stated on Friday that the efforts put forth by the Deputy CM for the Congress will soon bear fruit.

Speaking to journalists in Belagavi, MLA Hussain emphasized that this would occur promptly after the conclusion of the Assembly session.

Responding to assertions from the Siddaramaiah faction that Shivakumar lacks MLA support, Iqbal Hussain countered that numerical strength is irrelevant; what truly matters is the guidance from the Congress High Command.

In light of rumors regarding a dinner gathering aimed at showcasing his strength against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President Shivakumar declared, “I am not seeking to exhibit strength, nor do I require anyone to do so on my behalf.”

Shivakumar further stated, “There’s no need for anyone to rally behind me, nor should anyone speak on my behalf. I, along with the Chief Minister and all 140 MLAs, belong to one cohesive unit—the Congress party. We must avoid fostering any divisions.”