DK Suresh backs Siddaramaiah, says he wishes to see his brother as CM but destiny will decide

Bengaluru : Senior Congress leader and former MP DK Suresh on Tuesday sought to play down the growing speculation about leadership change in Karnataka, even as he expressed his personal wish to see his brother and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar become the Chief Minister someday.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Suresh said, “I too want my brother to become the Chief Minister, but it all depends on destiny. If it’s written on his forehead, it will happen. Such matters are decided by fate, not by desire.”

His remarks came amid a series of political statements and undercurrents within the Congress regarding the continuation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s leadership beyond the mid-term mark of the government. Suresh, however, made it clear that he continues to support Siddaramaiah’s leadership and sees no reason for a change at this juncture.

“People have given us 137 seats for a five-year term. So, the government should run its full term under the present leadership. Siddaramaiah is an experienced and capable leader. Even if he contests again, it will be good for the party,” he added.

When asked about senior MLC B.K. Rajanna’s recent remarks seeking clarity on Congress leadership, Suresh said, “Rajanna is a senior leader. He has every right to express his opinion. His suggestions will be conveyed to the high command. There’s nothing wrong in it.”

‘Rahul Gandhi’s visit not confirmed’
Suresh also clarified that he has no information regarding Congress MP Rahul Gandhi’s proposed visit to Karnataka. “I don’t know about Rahul Gandhi’s arrival. The Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister will look into it. Information about party programs will be provided by the party president and working presidents,” he said.

When quizzed about reports of a major “November revolution” or reshuffle within the Congress government, Suresh brushed off the speculation with humor. “I don’t know about any November revolution. When I think of November, I only remember Kannada Rajyotsava. Let’s celebrate it grandly,” he said with a smile.

‘No opposition to RSS processions’
In a significant remark on the recent RSS march controversy, DK Suresh said that the Congress has no objection to RSS processions as long as they remain peaceful and non-provocative. “No one opposes the RSS procession. But if they walk with sticks and display aggression, what if other communities start doing the same?” he questioned.

He also took a subtle jab at the Sangh’s evolving image, saying, “Earlier they wore shorts, now they wear pants. That’s the only difference.”

‘Dalit CM discussion welcome’
On the issue of a Dalit Chief Minister, Suresh welcomed the ongoing debate within the Congress ranks. “Discussions about a Dalit CM are welcome. It’s good to hold such inclusive conversations and conventions,” he stated.

‘No opposition to additional DCMs’
Regarding the demand for more Deputy Chief Ministers, Suresh said that the decision rests entirely with the Congress high command. “All suggestions will be considered by the high command. My opinion doesn’t carry much weight in such matters,” he remarked modestly.

D.K. Suresh also admitted that governance can never satisfy everyone. “I don’t have experience in administration, but I know that you can’t make everyone happy all the time. I don’t rub oil on anyone’s body, nor do I allow anyone to rub oil on mine,” he quipped, hinting at his independent political approach.

With these statements, DK Suresh reaffirmed his loyalty to both Siddaramaiah’s leadership and his brother DK Shivakumar’s political ambitions, while tactfully navigating the ongoing undercurrents within the Congress in Karnataka.

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