Bengaluru, Oct 25 (NationPress) In a robust defense of his statement regarding Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi as a potential successor to his father, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Congress MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah emphasized that he fully supports his remarks and insists that there is nothing inappropriate about what he expressed.

During a press conference on Saturday, Yathindra addressed inquiries about his comments that have exacerbated the leadership debate within the state. He also noted that Deputy CM and state Congress President D.K. Shivakumar, who is vying for the CM position, indicated that the issue would be taken up with the relevant authorities. Yathindra stated: “What I aimed to communicate has been communicated. There is absolutely nothing wrong with my statements. If I receive any notice regarding this matter, I will respond accordingly.”

He confidently added that his father, Siddaramaiah, is set to remain as Chief Minister throughout the full term.

In related news, CM Siddaramaiah is scheduled to visit Delhi on November 15. This visit holds significant importance amidst ongoing conversations about power sharing and a potential cabinet reshuffle. Numerous senior Congress MLAs have already voiced concerns that senior members are being overlooked and should be included in the cabinet.

Previously, the Karnataka BJP criticized Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar for his inaction regarding Yathindra Siddaramaiah’s remarks about Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi being his father’s successor.

Opposition Leader R. Ashoka remarked on Saturday: “Shivakumar has the audacity to threaten film actors by saying he will ‘tighten their nuts and bolts.’ He has the nerve to intimidate MLAs, insisting they must obey. He even has the boldness to reprimand party workers at will. But as the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President, does he lack the courage to issue a notice to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s son, Yathindra, Mr. D.K. Shivakumar?”

Ashoka further critiqued, “If you constantly look to the Delhi High Command for guidance, how will you lead the state if you assume the role of Chief Minister tomorrow, Mr. D.K. Shivakumar?”

“Much like the late Dr. Manmohan Singh was Prime Minister, with Sonia Gandhi wielding real power, even if you suddenly become Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah will undoubtedly remain the ‘super CM.’ What benefits will Kannadigas receive from a leader as weak as you becoming the Chief Minister?” Ashoka challenged.

In a significant development, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s son, MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah, remarked that his father is nearing the end of his political journey. He expressed that at this pivotal moment, Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi will assume leadership for those who advocate scientific and progressive thought.

These statements have sparked considerable controversy amid speculations of a leadership transition and discussions surrounding a power-sharing agreement in Karnataka.

Yathindra stated, “Currently, my father is at the conclusion of his political career. He is in the final stages of his political life. At this critical point, for those who adopt scientific and progressive ideologies, Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi will take charge and lead.”

Although Shivakumar previously asserted that no individual is greater than the party and that party members must remain loyal, no actions have been taken so far. Nevertheless, the party has previously issued warnings to MLAs for publicly discussing leadership matters.

Declining to comment on the situation, Shivakumar later reiterated that he would communicate the message to the relevant parties. When asked if he would issue a notice to Yathindra, Shivakumar responded, “I will not discuss the matter right now. I will relay the message where it needs to go.”

“I prioritize discipline. Discipline is paramount within my party,” Shivakumar emphasized. These remarks are expected to ignite a significant controversy within the ruling Congress, as the Siddaramaiah faction is anticipated to respond to Shivakumar’s statements.

Meanwhile, sources confirmed that a report on Yathindra’s comments, accompanied by a video of his announcement, has already been forwarded to the party high command by the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC). The Shivakumar faction is optimistic that the national leadership will acknowledge the message conveyed through Yathindra’s statements.