Congress Party's Strength Unaffected by Leadership Changes: Karnataka Dy CM Shivakumar
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Synopsis
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has stated that the Congress party in Karnataka will maintain its strength despite suggestions for leadership changes. He urged party members to prioritize internal discussions over public statements.
Key Takeaways
- Party strength remains intact despite leadership changes.
- Trust of workers and voters is crucial for the Congress party.
- Public comments on leadership changes should be avoided.
- Internal matters must be resolved within the party.
- Upcoming convention preparations are underway.
Bengaluru, Jan 16 (NationPress) In the face of calls for his replacement as the Karnataka state Congress chief, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar asserted on Thursday that the party's strength remains intact regardless of individual leaders. He emphasized that leaders should avoid making public remarks about such issues.
During a media interaction, Shivakumar remarked, “This party didn’t rise to power solely due to D.K. Shivakumar’s efforts. It is a testament to the dedication and trust bestowed upon us by our workers and voters. We must safeguard and honor this trust. The Congress party is rooted in its workers and voters and boasts a rich, illustrious history. No matter who departs or remains, the party possesses the resilience to endure.”
“Mahatma Gandhi championed the nation’s independence and relinquished power. Ambedkar crafted the Constitution without holding any significant office. We must reflect on such instances. Thus, I sincerely urge that the party’s well-being takes precedence over public declarations. Anyone facing challenges should engage in dialogue with the high command,” Shivakumar asserted.
“Currently, we are gearing up for the Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Constitution convention. AICC in-charge Randeep Surjewala will be in Belagavi on Friday to supervise preparations. Any additional inquiries can be directed to him,” Shivakumar mentioned.
When questioned about Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi’s suggestion of a weakening organization needing a full-time KPCC president, Shivakumar replied, “It is not my place to clarify this. That responsibility lies with AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge. Concerns regarding this should be directed to him. Challenging Mallikarjun Kharge’s choices is inappropriate,” he concluded.
“KPCC roles are not commodities sold in stores, nor can they be acquired by merely conversing with the media,” Shivakumar stated. “Party leaders are aware of and duly recognize our contributions. Does anyone seek positions through media channels? This notion is entirely foreign to me,” he remarked.
Shivakumar stated, “Should any notable developments arise regarding party affairs, I will convene a press conference to share the information. At present, our focus should be on organizing, preserving, and expanding the party. Both the Chief Minister and senior leaders have advised all members to uphold discipline within the party. They have also instructed us to refrain from discussing internal matters in public.”
“Party issues should not be aired in front of the media. Regardless of the concern, approach the AICC President, Rahul Gandhi, the Chief Minister, or me directly. This counsel isn’t exclusive to Congress but is applicable to any party—be it BJP, JD(S), or farmers’ organizations. Internal concerns must be resolved internally,” he emphasized.
“Even if I were to covet a specific position, would you (the media) bestow it upon me? Are these positions available like merchandise? Engaging with the media will not aid; in fact, it may have adverse effects,” he added.
Sources indicated that tensions have risen following Dy CM Shivakumar’s claim for the CM position. CM Siddaramaiah’s close associates, including Minister for Cooperation K.N. Rajanna, Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi, Minister for Excise R.B. Thimmapur, and Minister for Social Welfare H.C. Mahadevappa, have openly issued statements challenging Shivakumar in support of CM Siddaramaiah.
Shivakumar relayed a warning through KPCC Working President Manjunath Bhandary on Thursday to Ministers Satish Jarkiholi and H.C. Mahadevappa for their repeated remarks concerning a change in leadership.
This statement emerged as internal conflicts escalated within the party, and sources suggested it served as a warning to the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah faction.
The infighting within the ruling Congress party has intensified, with Home Minister G. Parameshwara commenting that it is natural for leaders to call for the current Karnataka Congress state president's replacement. “He (D.K. Shivakumar) is the president of the state unit and holds two significant portfolios. In this context, it is expected that leaders will seek a replacement,” Parameshwara remarked.
