Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has firmly denied speculation that he will be replaced before completing his term. Speaking to the media after a cabinet meeting at Nandi Hills in Chikkaballapura district on Wednesday, Siddaramaiah said, “Yes, I will be the chief minister for five years. Why did you get this doubt?”
Siddaramaiah Responds to Opposition’s Claims
His remarks came in response to opposition leader R Ashok’s recent claim that Siddaramaiah would be replaced within three months. Dismissing the comment, Siddaramaiah replied, “Ashok is not Congress high command. He is just the opposition leader. He is not even in our party, so how can he decide who would be the Chief Minister in the State?”
Shivakumar Backs Party's Decision
When asked whether he supports Siddaramaiah serving the full term, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar avoided a direct answer but showed support. With a smile, he responded, “What choice do I have? I have to do as the party high command says. When he is the chief minister, I have to support him. I don't want to reply to any of the speculations.”
Congress Ministers Echo Support
Home Minister Dr G Parameshwar also reinforced that the party’s decision is final. “The party high command takes a decision and we have to follow that. They will decide what is good for the party,” he said.
Similarly, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Dr H C Mahadevappa dismissed the idea of a leadership change. He clarified, “There is no move to replace Siddaramaiah with any other leader. He will complete the term and no one needs to have any doubt about it.”
Differences Are Natural, Says Labour Minister
Labour Minister Santhosh Lad acknowledged that some internal disagreements are common in a large party. “It is natural for a political party with 140 MLAs to have differences of opinion. Every MLA will have their own favorite leader and feel that their leader is suitable to head. Ultimately, the party will have a high command, which decides who should lead. We don't have to attach special meanings to the statement made by each legislator,” he said.