Bengaluru, Nov 21 (NationPress) Deputy Chief Minister and Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) chief D.K. Shivakumar addressed the media on Friday, defending the recent trip to Delhi undertaken by several MLAs. He likened this to the journeys made by Ministers and MLAs who accompanied Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, expressing his wishes for the latter to successfully retain his position.

Shivakumar's comments came in response to the emerging leadership conflict in Karnataka, as multiple MLAs and Ministers have traveled to Delhi reportedly to advocate for his ascension to the Chief Minister's role.

In reaction to CM Siddaramaiah's declaration that he intends to serve a complete five-year term, Shivakumar remarked, “The Honourable CM Siddaramaiah has stated he will fulfill the five years. I wish him all the luck.”

These statements were made while he was addressing journalists in Bengaluru on Friday. When questioned about the importance of honoring commitments (in light of the power-sharing discussion), Shivakumar replied, “Our CM has always articulated his ideology. I won’t comment further. He mentioned that the matter lies between him and the high command. Siddaramaiah has pledged to adhere to whatever the high command decides. The CM will heed the high command, and I am aligned with that as well. We are all devoted to the high command’s decision.”

He further stated, “Beyond this, there’s nothing to elaborate on. However, it’s evident that all MLAs have the right to visit and engage with their leaders. They cannot be restricted. Many MLAs travel alongside Ministers, and several accompany the Chief Minister. Who has barred them? No one has interfered.”

When asked about a dinner meeting reportedly organized by Ministers close to CM Siddaramaiah after the Delhi visits, Shivakumar stated, “I’m unaware of the message they intend to convey. I have no insight into the situation. They sought a change in the State President; they requested additional Deputy Chief Minister positions.”

“These discussions have persisted for two-and-a-half years. Let them continue to hold more meetings,” Shivakumar remarked, taking a jab at Ministers aligned with CM Siddaramaiah.

Clarifying about his Ministers and MLAs visiting Delhi, Shivakumar asserted, “I don’t lead any faction. I represent all 140 MLAs. Each of them is significant to me. I’m not looking to align with any faction, nor will I cultivate divisions within the party.”

“Creating factions isn’t in my nature. All 140 MLAs are my responsibility. The Honourable Chief Minister has chosen to reorganize the government. He will execute the Cabinet reshuffle. Naturally, many are eager to become Ministers, so it’s normal for them to visit Delhi to meet with leaders,” he stated.

“What else can I say? It’s their right. I haven’t taken any of them there. Some have met AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge. Numerous leaders also went to meet him alongside Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. What’s wrong with that?” he questioned.

“They have traveled independently. No one summoned them. It’s their right. They are voluntarily visiting Delhi to showcase their presence. They wish to demonstrate that they are active, capable, and seeking responsibility. Every party member is eligible to become a Minister,” he maintained.

Amid the leadership dispute and the Delhi visit by a faction of Ministers and MLAs reportedly pursuing a leadership shift in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed his intention to remain in office and to present the state budget throughout the remainder of the government’s term.

Speaking to reporters at Mandakalli Airport in Mysuru, Siddaramaiah addressed inquiries regarding the leadership matter within the ruling party.

When questioned about presenting the budget this year and for the remainder of the term, Siddaramaiah responded, “Why are you (the media) asking this question? Yes, I will continue as the Chief Minister and will also present the budget.”