Bengaluru, July 29 (NationPress) In the midst of the ongoing leadership conflict within the Congress party's state unit, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara has remarked that it would be entirely acceptable for the party's national President, Mallikarjun Kharge, to make a return to state-level politics.

This statement comes in light of Kharge's expressed dissatisfaction regarding his denial of the Chief Minister position back in 1999, despite his significant contributions over five years to elevate Congress to power in Karnataka.

While addressing the media on Tuesday in Bengaluru, Parameshwara, when queried about the increasing calls from several leaders for Kharge to re-enter state politics, stated, “There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. He occupies a crucial decision-making role within our party. He is responsible for determining who should be appointed as Chief Minister. As the AICC President, if he chooses to return to state politics, it should not be misconstrued.”

On being asked about Kharge's recent insights regarding his disappointment over not being granted the CM position in 1999 and the BJP's critique of his comments, Parameshwara replied, “Those who are making remarks on this matter have not attained the stature that Kharge possesses today. He is a prominent figure in national politics, not solely within our party. This fact must be acknowledged.”

“It is inappropriate to cast aspersions on him. Kharge is more than capable of holding any position. With extensive experience spanning five decades in politics, his statements should not be misinterpreted,” he elaborated.

Regarding the Chief Minister's upcoming one-on-one discussions with MLAs, Parameshwara noted, “Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is set to initiate district-wise meetings with MLAs. The aim is to allocate ₹50 crore to each Assembly constituency. This is just one aspect. He will also gather feedback on various other issues, including party organization.”

“The CM and Deputy CM will engage with legislators. This is not unprecedented. Similar meetings took place in 2013, 2015, and 2018, when I was the state Congress president. Those meetings were held at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) office,” he reminisced.

“Having reached the midpoint of our five-year term, this is a crucial moment. We can deliberate on what further actions are necessary in the time remaining,” Parameshwara stated.

When questioned about whether Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar would participate in the meetings, Parameshwara indicated uncertainty. “He is likely to attend. Some have suggested he is unwell due to dengue. I presume he will be present,” he mentioned.

When inquired if these meetings were conducted under the direction of the party's national President, Mallikarjun Kharge, Parameshwara affirmed, “There is nothing inappropriate about that.”