Hubballi (Karnataka), Jan 14 (NationPress) Amid ongoing discord within the Congress party, Karnataka Excise Minister R.B. Timmapur has boldly asserted his candidacy for the Chief Minister position, emphasizing his identity as a Dalit and questioning, "Why can't I become the CM?"

During a press briefing in Hubballi, Minister Timmapur remarked, "Why shouldn't Dalits ascend to the role of Chief Minister? Who would oppose my becoming the CM?"

He expressed uncertainty regarding the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting's endorsement of his nomination, stating, "Several factors will influence this decision. If the high command backs me, I will be the CM."

Timmapur noted that the CLP meeting on Monday focused on the Belagavi program, with no legislator voicing discontent. He mentioned that a meeting of Dalit leaders has only been postponed, asserting, "The challenges faced by Dalits must be addressed. I've highlighted the sacrifices made... The high command will ultimately determine the new Chief Minister. Who claimed that CM Siddaramaiah would be asked to resign? I'm unaware of any power-sharing arrangements or cabinet reshuffles."

Responding to the BJP's protest regarding the mutilation of three cows, he questioned, "Did the BJP protest when Dalit murders were reported?"

Timmapur insisted that the offenders should be held accountable without politicizing the issue, warning that "the public will teach the BJP a lesson if they engage in trivial politics."

Former Minister S.R. Patil remarked that he would welcome a candidate from northern Karnataka for the CM role, stating, "Every MLA aspires to become the CM. It's natural to seek such a prestigious position. The decision to change the CM lies with the high command, and I'm not privy to any power-sharing discussions."

Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka commented on the Congress's internal strife, noting, "Siddaramaiah is the outgoing Chief Minister. The Congress is a fractured entity and will struggle to regain power. The dispute now revolves around the CM's chair."

BJP state President B.Y. Vijayendra highlighted that the Congress's infighting is not a new phenomenon. "CM Siddaramaiah is nearing two years in office. Numerous Congress leaders are eyeing the CM role, particularly Dy CM D. K. Shivakumar, who is eagerly awaiting his chance. The discord will soon be evident in public," he stated.

Vijayendra further commented, "Over eight Congress leaders are vying for the CM position, and the situation will soon be brought to light. Congress leaders, including National General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, need not concern themselves with BJP affairs. The BJP high command is capable of managing the situation and ensuring stability."

Several Congress leaders, including Deputy CM Shivakumar, Home Minister G. Parameshwara, PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi, Industry Minister M.B. Patil, and RDPR, IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge, have all expressed interest in the CM position.