Amid rising speculation over a possible leadership transition in Karnataka, the Congress high command has moved decisively to quell internal dissent and reinforce political stability. Senior party leader and Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Singh Surjewala, dispatched to Bengaluru by the All India Congress Committee (AICC), categorically ruled out any change in the state’s top leadership, affirming Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s continued stewardship.
“There is no plan for leadership change in Karnataka,” Surjewala stated firmly during a press briefing, putting to rest days of political buzz that hinted at growing factionalism within the state unit. His remarks come in the wake of public endorsements for Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar by several legislators, sparking speculation over potential pressure on the high command for a mid-term reshuffle.
Surjewala clarified that his visit was focused entirely on reviewing the Congress government's administrative performance and strengthening the party's organisational framework. “We are assessing the progress on governance, implementation of welfare guarantees, the status of party meetings, and any difficulties or aspirations among MLAs,” he said.
Underscoring the party's emphasis on accountability, Surjewala added, “The government belongs to the people and the organisation. Our discussions are centred on delivery — what has been promised and what has been delivered.”
He unequivocally dismissed reports of an internal leadership survey or reshuffle deliberations. “There has been no discussion on leadership change. No opinions are being sought on this matter,” he said, drawing a clear line under the circulating rumours.
MLA Iqbal Hussain Voices Support for DK Shivakumar
Earlier this week, Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain had claimed that nearly 100 party legislators are backing Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar as a potential Chief Ministerial candidate. Highlighting Shivakumar’s significant contributions to the party's resurgence and organisational strength at the grassroots, Hussain stated that the Deputy CM “deserves an opportunity to lead.”
Hussain also indicated that he intends to formally raise the matter with Surjewala during the ongoing party review meetings in Bengaluru. He argued that Shivakumar’s leadership could be vital for the Congress's future electoral prospects, particularly in the run-up to the 2028 state elections.
A Move to Reinforce Unity and Continuity
With the Congress government enjoying a strong mandate following its sweeping victory in the 2023 assembly elections, the high command's swift response to speculation appears aimed at preserving internal cohesion and ensuring continuity in governance.
Surjewala’s statement serves as a strategic reaffirmation of the party’s trust in Siddaramaiah’s leadership, even as it acknowledges the ambitions and contributions of other senior figures like Shivakumar. As Karnataka continues to implement a series of welfare initiatives that formed the cornerstone of the party’s 2023 campaign, the Congress appears focused on maintaining stability while keeping a close watch on delivery and performance.
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