Is D. K. Shivakumar Set to Succeed Siddaramaiah as K'taka CM?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Siddaramaiah reacted strongly to questions about leadership changes.
- The Congress party is facing internal conflict.
- Shivakumar's influence remains significant in Karnataka politics.
- Political stability is crucial for effective governance.
- Speculation about leadership changes continues to circulate.
Bengaluru, Oct 31 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah displayed irritation when questioned about the potential of Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D. K. Shivakumar assuming the Chief Minister position on Friday.
In response to inquiries regarding a potential leadership change in November, coinciding with the Congress-led government's mid-term milestone, Siddaramaiah snapped back, "Who has indicated this? Where is it stated? Did anyone inform you?"
When reporters cited media coverage, the Chief Minister furiously asked, "In which publication has it been reported? I keep up with all news sources. Is there any outlet I don’t review?"
Earlier, Siddaramaiah refused to comment on the deadline for addressing potholes in Bengaluru, which is due at midnight on Friday, and instead referred media inquiries to Shivakumar, who oversees the Bengaluru Development portfolio.
This reaction from the Chief Minister surfaces amid ongoing reports of internal strife within the Congress party.
In response to questions about power-sharing dynamics and rumors of a deadline supposedly issued by Shivakumar regarding vacating the Chief Minister's role, Social Welfare Minister H.C. Mahadevappa claimed he was not aware of any such situation.
Waqf and Housing Minister B. Z. Zameer Ahmad Khan affirmed that Siddaramaiah would remain in office until 2028.
Khan also dismissed speculation that Shivakumar would soon switch allegiance to the BJP.
He expressed his hope that Shivakumar could become Chief Minister in 2028, following Siddaramaiah's term.
Khan received an enthusiastic response from his supporters, who chanted slogans advocating his name for Deputy Chief Minister.
Textiles and Agricultural Marketing Minister Shivanand Patil stated that the Chief Minister's position has been stable during the first half of the government's term and will continue to be so in the latter half. "There is no possibility of a November Revolution or a change in leadership," he asserted.