Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Wednesday, 6 May addressed a wide range of political and administrative issues at a media interaction held at his official residence in Bengaluru. Topics ranged from the Tamil Nadu assembly election results and the Congress-DMK alliance to the Sringeri constituency oath row and the state of police housing infrastructure across Karnataka.

Tamil Nadu Poll Outcome: A Surprise, Says Parameshwara

Commenting on the Tamil Nadu election results, Parameshwara said the speed at which actor Vijay's popularity translated into electoral gains was not anticipated by many. He attributed the outcome largely to young voters seeking an alternative after Dravidian parties had governed the state for several decades.

On whether continuing the alliance with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) was a strategic misstep, he said the rationale behind such decisions warrants closer examination. He noted that the alliance had been in place for some time, and any decision to change course could have been taken by senior leaders — Sonia Gandhi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and party chief Mallikarjun Kharge.

Internal Party Matters and Karnataka Leadership Questions

Addressing the ongoing leadership race in Kerala, Parameshwara described the delay in decision-making as part of a normal political process when multiple senior leaders are involved, expressing confidence that a resolution would emerge in due course.

On reports of senior Karnataka legislators travelling to Delhi again, he stressed the importance of resolving internal differences without disrupting governance. He attributed the delay in settling the matter to leaders being occupied with election duties and said a resolution is expected shortly now that elections are over.

Asked about a possible Cabinet expansion or reshuffle in Karnataka, Parameshwara declined to offer a personal view, noting that such decisions rest with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the party leadership, and the high command. Drawing on his four decades in politics, he said he has seen many such situations resolve themselves and remains confident this one will too.

Sringeri Constituency Row: FIR Filed, Action Awaited

Turning to the Sringeri constituency dispute, Parameshwara confirmed that despite BJP leader D.N. Jeevaraj being declared the winner and issued a certificate by the Election Commission, a complaint alleging vote manipulation has been filed and an FIR registered.

He said time has been allowed for further developments and a decision will be taken after reviewing the situation. He also noted it remains to be seen whether Congress candidate T.D. Rajegowda would approach the court again, adding that the complaint submitted by his side has been received.

Clarifying the scope of the complaint, Parameshwara said it pertains to the police department and is distinct from an electoral process issue, which would fall under the Election Commission's jurisdiction. He assured that any complaint received will be duly considered.

Police Housing: From 40% Coverage to 80-90% Target

On infrastructure concerns, Parameshwara addressed the deteriorating condition of the Halasuru police quarters in Bengaluru, stating that a formal request from the police department is required before repairs can be initiated. He assured that funds are allocated annually for new buildings and the matter would be taken up on priority.

He noted that many police line buildings constructed during the British era are in a deteriorating state across Karnataka — not just in Bengaluru — and are being vacated for repair or replacement in a phased manner. Currently, around 40 per cent of police personnel have access to housing facilities. Under the Police Housing Scheme, the government aims to expand this coverage to 80 to 90 per cent of personnel in a phased manner, with demolition of unsafe structures and construction of new ones already planned.

With elections behind him and several pending matters now in focus, Parameshwara signalled that the coming weeks are likely to see movement on both the political and administrative fronts.