Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah confirmed that there will be no sudden leadership change in the state and assured that the Congress government will complete its full term. He mentioned his willingness to follow any decision made by the party’s high command regarding leadership alterations but stated he is unaware of any such plans currently.
Siddaramaiah expressed readiness to visit New Delhi if summoned by the party leadership. Following the bypolls, Deputy CM and state Congress President D.K. Shivakumar, a potential CM candidate, met with the national leadership in Delhi. In response, a group of cabinet ministers supporting Siddaramaiah approached the high command seeking clarity on the leadership situation.
Amid these developments, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge declared that there would be no change in the CM position. Kharge acknowledged the pressure on him to assume the role of Karnataka CM.
Regarding local body elections, Siddaramaiah confirmed that these elections would be held shortly. He also criticized the BJP for alleged misconduct during the Sringeri election recount, accusing them of engaging in a “criminal conspiracy” by invalidating votes in favor of a Congress leader.
CM Siddaramaiah attributed the recent by-election victories to the strong public support for Congress party welfare schemes. He highlighted the success in Davanagere South and Bagalkote bye-elections as endorsements of the government’s initiatives, dismissing opposition strategies as mere conspiracies.
Responding to concerns about Kannadigas’ representation in railway recruitment, Siddaramaiah pointed out that such exams are conducted by the Central government, reflecting what he perceives as a bias against Kannadigas.
