Is There Really No Discontent Within Karnataka Congress?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- D.K. Shivakumar denies any discontent within the Congress party.
- Randeep Surjewala's visit is aimed at enhancing party operations.
- Discipline is highlighted as crucial for party unity.
- Upcoming cabinet meeting to address significant regional issues.
- Rumors of leadership changes are dismissed by Shivakumar.
Bengaluru, July 2 (NationPress) In response to the speculation regarding a leadership shift in Karnataka from the Congress MLAs, Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar asserted on Wednesday that no discontent exists within the party.
Speaking to reporters outside his residence in Bengaluru, he remarked, "There is no discontent within the party. National General Secretary and Karnataka In-Charge Randeep Surjewala has visited Karnataka to assess party matters and organizational affairs."
When inquired about claims that legislators voiced grievances in front of AICC General Secretary and Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala, Shivakumar replied, "Surjewala’s visit is strictly to discuss preparations for the upcoming elections and to ensure effective handling of responsibilities. His objective is to enhance party operations."
Concerning the notice issued to MLA Iqbal Hussain, he stated, "Discipline is crucial in the party. If a notice has been issued to him, others might also face similar actions. There’s no need to invoke my name and suggest, 'Make me the Chief Minister.' With Siddaramaiah already serving as Chief Minister, why mention other names?"
When questioned about the rumors surrounding his name due to his efforts in strengthening the party, he responded, "Did I build the party alone? Like myself, there are countless individuals who have contributed to the party’s growth. First, let’s uphold the trust placed in us."
Addressing queries regarding the upcoming special cabinet meeting, Shivakumar mentioned, "Topics such as the development of Nadaprabhu Kempegowda’s memorial in Magadi and various small-scale irrigation initiatives for Bengaluru will be on the agenda."
He added, "We have already launched drinking water projects for the Kolar and Chikkaballapur regions. There is also a proposal to rename the Bengaluru Rural district to Bengaluru North. This will be discussed during the meeting."
Regarding the potential renaming of Bengaluru North district, he said, "Earlier, when I served as a Zilla Panchayat member, the regions of Kanakapura, Channapatna, and Ramanagara were part of Bengaluru Rural. After its rebranding to Bengaluru South, any future renaming will depend on requests from the local legislators."
The issuance of notices to all party leaders regarding statements to the press on the leadership topic could lead to controversy within the state Congress party.
Recently, Cooperation Minister K. N. Rajanna, a close associate of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, stated that significant changes in state politics are anticipated after October and added that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is currently operating under pressure.
Minister Rajanna also mentioned the existence of multiple power centers in the state.