CM Siddaramaiah dismisses leadership change talk, says high command will decide

CM Siddaramaiah: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has dismissed speculation about a change in leadership, stating that any such decision will be taken only by the Congress high command.

Speaking at the Mangaluru International Airport, Siddaramaiah responded to Minister K.N. Rajanna’s recent claim that he would remain Chief Minister for the full five-year term, saying, “That is his personal opinion. If the high command decides, I will continue as Chief Minister for the entire term.”

When asked about other senior Congress leaders — including Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar, Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara, and Minister K.H. Muniyappa — reportedly being in the race for the top post, Siddaramaiah maintained, “In a democracy, no one can be stopped from aspiring for a position. Everyone has the right to express their views. Ultimately, the high command will decide.”

Responding to an FIR filed against RSS leader Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat over alleged hate speech, the CM said, “Whoever makes a hate speech, an FIR will be filed. Creating hatred and disturbing peace in society is unacceptable. He has made objectionable comments about women, so the case was registered.”

On the issue of an RSS land and building audit, Siddaramaiah said he had no information and advised the media to seek clarification from Minister Krishna Byre Gowda.

Meanwhile, Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara stated that if there is a need for leadership change or cabinet reorganization, the high command will decide after the Bihar elections. “Talking about it here creates confusion. Our focus should be on improving governance,” he said.

With the Congress government approaching its two-and-a-half-year mark, speculation on power-sharing and cabinet changes has intensified, but Siddaramaiah remains firm that the final call rests with the high command.

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