New Delhi: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday strongly refuted speculation over a possible change in leadership, terming it “media-created fiction” with no basis in party discussions.
Speaking to reporters at Karnataka Bhavan in Delhi, Siddaramaiah said, “There is no vacancy for the Chief Minister’s post. I continue as CM, and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar has already stated the same. This is not the time to entertain such discussions.”
Addressing claims about a leadership transfer agreement within the Congress, Siddaramaiah clarified, “There was no formal power-sharing agreement. The party high command has asked both me and DK Shivakumar to accept any decision they make. We have reiterated our commitment to that. But as things stand, I remain the CM.”
On questions over some legislators backing DK Shivakumar, Siddaramaiah downplayed the significance, stating, “Individual MLAs may express personal opinions, but that does not amount to a party decision. These assumptions hold no ground.”
Responding to a query about his role in the party’s OBC platform, he affirmed, “Yes, I’m leading the national-level OBC committee meeting scheduled in Bengaluru on July 15. Although I’m not formally heading the committee, my leadership is being utilised due to my influence and background in the backward classes movement.”
Addressing BJP’s claim that Anna Bhagya rice transport was stalled due to lack of funds, Siddaramaiah said, “I’m not aware of the financial details but will get the information and respond accordingly.”
Asked about a reported notice to his wife in connection with the MUDA case, the Chief Minister simply said, “I have no information on that.”
Dismissing the possibility of an imminent cabinet reshuffle, he clarified, “There is no such discussion underway at present.”
When asked about remarks by Rambhapuri seer that welfare schemes were promoting laziness, the CM retorted, “Is free bus travel for women under Shakti scheme turning them lazy? That’s absurd. Our guarantee schemes are aimed at uplifting the poor.”
Siddaramaiah also responded to JDS leader HD Kumaraswamy’s recent comments on Mekedatu dam, saying, “He used to say it would be built immediately if he came to power. Now he claims it’s only possible under JDS rule. That’s just a daydream.”
He concluded by reiterating his government’s commitment to continuing its welfare programmes and called on all Congress leaders to stay united in serving the state.
