Belagavi (Karnataka), Dec 16 (NationPress) Amidst ongoing power struggles within the ruling Congress party, Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah affirmed in the State Assembly on Tuesday that he has been entrusted by the electorate for a complete five-year term. He emphasized his commitment to serving as Chief Minister for the entire duration.

The importance of this declaration lies in Siddaramaiah's previous statements indicating he would respect the party high command's decisions regarding his tenure. Notably, Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress leader D.K. Shivakumar is viewed as a significant challenger for the CM position.

The topic arose when Siddaramaiah was addressing a query related to perceived biases in loan allocations by DCC banks to farmers in the Madhugiri Assembly constituency, represented by his ally and former minister K.N. Rajanna, contrasted with the Kunigal constituency, represented by H.D. Ranganath, a loyal supporter of Shivakumar.

In response to Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka's remarks linking the issue to internal party strife, Siddaramaiah urged him to refrain from exacerbating tensions.

Ashoka countered by asserting that Siddaramaiah had acknowledged the party's internal issues. Siddaramaiah clarified that he merely referenced a saying.

Ashoka then insinuated that Congress leaders were performing special prayers to ascend to the Chief Minister role. Senior BJP MLA V. Sunil Kumar questioned whether Siddaramaiah was genuinely quoting a proverb or revealing his true feelings. Ashoka further claimed Congress leaders were indeed inflating the problem.

Siddaramaiah challenged Ashoka to remain silent while his own party members were reticent. Ashoka argued they could not stay silent, asserting they were all vying to become Chief Minister, at least once.

Siddaramaiah insisted that while the Opposition aimed to stir controversies, Congress leaders would remain steadfast.

When Ashoka inquired about Siddaramaiah's assurance of completing his term, Siddaramaiah responded, “Hear this. The people have favored us for five years, and I will serve as the Chief Minister for the full term.”

Ashoka pressed further for confirmation.

State Home Minister G. Parameshwara interjected, affirming that since the Chief Minister had declared his five-year term, no further clarification was needed.

Ashoka noted that Parameshwara seemed aligned with him during the discussion. Siddaramaiah interjected, asserting that all 140 Congress MLAs were united in support.

“Do not attempt to sow discord. All 140 MLAs stand with us, and our administration is stable. The citizens entrusted us in 2023, and we will reclaim power in the 2028 Assembly elections,” Siddaramaiah stated.

He further articulated that the people of Karnataka would never endorse the BJP. “You have achieved power twice. Did you ever secure a clear majority? In 2008 and 2018, did the populace grant you a majority? You gained power through Operation Lotus and entered through the back door,” he criticized.

Ashoka retorted that in 2019, the people did not support Congress either, compelling it to ally with the Janata Dal (Secular) to form a coalition government. Siddaramaiah countered that he never sought collaboration with JD(S) leaders, stating, “We united solely to prevent the BJP from gaining power. So why is the BJP now partnering with JD(S)?”

“We will adhere to the high command’s decisions. Then why the internal disputes in the BJP regarding the State president’s position?” Siddaramaiah questioned, asserting that the BJP was creating confusion out of frustration and jealousy.

“I want to clarify this. We have a high command, and we uphold its decisions. We have the people's blessing for five years. The BJP has never received the people's blessing and will remain in the Opposition indefinitely,” he declared.

Ashoka later noted that Siddaramaiah’s claim of serving a full term had provided clarity given the circulating reports suggesting otherwise.