The Karnataka Congress is grappling with internal dissensions, with the Siddaramaiah faction expressing discontent with the state Congress in-charge, Randeep Singh Surjewala. Allegations of Surjewala’s partisan approach have sparked an internal signature collection campaign, aimed at complaining to the party’s higher-ups about his perceived bias.
Sources within the Congress party have revealed that an internal signature collection process is underway, with the Siddaramaiah faction likely to submit a written complaint to the high command. This development is a culmination of the growing dissatisfaction within the party, with many leaders feeling that Surjewala is favouring DK Shivakumar and ignoring the concerns of other senior leaders.
The allegations against Surjewala are multifaceted. He is claimed to be standing in favour of DK Shivakumar, which has led to discontent among other leaders. Furthermore, Surjewala’s handling of Belagavi politics has been questioned, with some feeling that he is not giving sufficient priority to Satish Jarkiholi’s concerns. The Siddaramaiah faction also feels that Surjewala is stifling their strategies and not taking state elders into confidence.
DK Shivakumar, however, has denied the claims that the Siddaramaiah faction is upset with Surjewala. He expressed his anger that such rumours are being spread, but the issue is being widely discussed within the party’s internal circles.
The dissatisfaction with Surjewala’s leadership has sparked speculation about the possibility of a change in the state in charge. It is said that other national-level leaders may be appointed to replace Surjewala. This development has added to the uncertainty within the party, with leaders watching closely to see how the situation unfolds.
The internal signature collection campaign is a significant development, indicating a growing disillusionment with Surjewala’s leadership. The campaign will likely gain momentum in the coming days, with more leaders potentially joining to express their dissatisfaction.
DKS supporters raised slogans at the Belagavi convention
Meanwhile, as the Congress party convenes in grand style in Belagavi congress centenary celebrations, a palpable buzz surrounding the next Chief Minister of Karnataka has once again taken centre stage. During the convention, party workers overwhelmingly supported Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, chanting slogans declaring him the next CM. Supporters brandishing his photographs enthusiastically participated in the vocal display, signalling a possible shift in party dynamics as the state gears up for upcoming elections.
The atmosphere at the convention was enthusiastic as Congress members rallied behind Shivakumar. Shouts of “DK Shivakumar will be the next CM!” reverberated throughout the venue, indicating a grassroots movement eager for leadership continuity. However, amidst the jubilation, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge delivered a pointed reminder about the values of sacrifice and unity that the party espouses. His address emphasised the importance of putting the party before individual aspirations. Kharge recalled the moment in 2004 when Sonia Gandhi opted not to assume the prime ministerial role, stating, “She had sacrificed the post for the unity and strength of the party.”
This intriguing tension between grassroots aspirations for Shivakumar’s elevation and leadership’s calls for collective sacrifice could signify deeper underlying currents. The enthusiasm expressed by party workers may not necessarily align with the sentiments of the party’s top brass, potentially complicating the path forward for Congress in Karnataka’s political landscape.
Amidst this unfolding saga within Congress, opposition parties have not held back in their criticism. Leaders from the BJP and JDS mocked the convention and highlighted the apparent factionalism plaguing the Congress party. Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy took a jab at the gathering, dismissively stating, “Sit down and sit down, no one wants you,” reflecting the derision from rival parties regarding the Congress’s internal disputes.
BJP leader Pralhad Joshi echoed these sentiments, questioning the relevance of the Congress party today compared to its inception in 1924. He asked, “What is the relationship between the Congress of 1924 and the Congress of today?” such comments aimed to undermine the Congress’s credibility while reinforcing the argument that the party struggles with coherence and direction in contemporary politics.
MLC H. Vishwanath Predicts DK Shivakumar’s Ascension as Chief Minister
In a bold statement, a member of the Legislative Council, H. Vishwanath, declared that nobody can prevent DK Shivakumar from becoming the Chief Minister of Karnataka. Speaking in Bengaluru on Wednesday, Vishwanath expressed his strong support for Shivakumar, stating that he is batting for his candidacy.
Vishwanath’s comments hold significant weight, especially as discussions around leadership changes and power-sharing intensify within the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC). His remarks come amid calls from the Chief Minister’s camp for a change in the KPCC president, which he described as an unnecessary distraction that tarnishes the Congress party’s reputation. “They are not the builders of the Congress; this is unwarranted,” he indirectly criticised Siddaramaiah, suggesting that such issues should not emerge at this time.
In a pointed challenge to Siddaramaiah, Vishwanath remarked, “Siddaramaiah only focuses on North Karnataka’s prowess: Implement a caste census,” clearly indicating his belief that Siddaramaiah should confront issues beyond regional politics.
Vishwanath stated the contributions of DK Shivakumar in the recent 2023 Assembly elections, stating that Congress managed to secure 136 seats largely due to Shivakumar’s efforts. He questioned if these contributions meant Shivakumar should be overlooked, asserting that “nobody can prevent DK Shivakumar from becoming the Chief Minister.”
While discussing the recent controversies surrounding the MUDA property transaction, Vishwanath candidly criticised Siddaramaiah. “Yes, if they say it is politically motivated, there is a point. The Chief Minister has lost his dignity in the MUDA case,” he remarked.
He continued mocking Siddaramaiah’s administration and questioned the resources available to the people of Mysuru, stating that during Siddaramaiah’s tenure, Mysuru had become the Vijayanagar Empire. Sites were sold for Rs 1,200 for a 50 x 80 area; nobody has seen such sales since the Vijayanagara Empire.”
Vishwanath’s criticisms highlighted his disdain for Siddaramaiah’s handling of land and property issues, suggesting he should feel embarrassed for the mismanagement during his leadership.
Although H. Vishwanath had recently maintained a low profile, he has now returned to the political arena with serious allegations against Siddaramaiah, including confrontations with close aides of the CM, like Bharathi Suresh. His return to political discourse reaffirms his readiness to vigorously challenge Siddaramaiah and voice the BJP’s perspectives.
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