Leadership change: Will abide by Cong high command’s decision, says CM Siddaramaiah

PTI, Jul 1, 2024, 5:00 PM IST

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Monday that he will adhere to the Congress high command’s decision regarding leadership changes. This statement comes amid growing political tension within the ruling party. Last week, a Vokkaliga seer publicly urged Siddaramaiah to make way for his deputy, D.K. Shivakumar.

‘It is not a matter to be discussed in public. Whatever decision the high command takes, we will go by it,’ Siddaramaiah informed reporters when questioned about the appeal made by Vishwa Vokkaligara Mahasamsthana Mutt seer Chandrashekhara Swami.

‘I don’t want to comment on what Swamiji says. Ours is a national party. There is a high command,’ the Chief Minister added. Certain Ministers close to Siddaramaiah have demanded the creation of more Deputy Chief Minister posts, aimed at diverse communities. This move is seen as an attempt to limit Shivakumar’s political influence. Shivakumar, belonging to the Vokkaliga community, currently serves as the only Deputy Chief Minister in Siddaramaiah’s government.