Bengaluru
Amid the ongoing churn within the Karnataka Congress, senior MLA KN Rajanna has ignited fresh debate by publicly naming former Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara as the “second-best option” for the chief minister’s post if Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is unable to continue. His remarks add a sharper edge to the political unease already simmering in the ruling party.
MLA’s remarks stir internal debates
Rajanna, known for speaking bluntly on party issues, said that while Siddaramaiah completing his full term remains his first preference, an alternative may have to be explored if circumstances demand it. In that scenario, he said, Parameshwara should be considered the natural fallback.
The comments arrive at a time when speculation about a leadership shift has been intensifying. Reports of internal rifts, combined with a flurry of statements from leaders aligned with different camps, have pushed the Congress high command to monitor developments closely.
Dissolution call escalates tensions
In a move that further rattled the party, Rajanna suggested dissolving the Karnataka Assembly and holding fresh elections under the leadership of Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, if internal disagreements persist. He argued that since the Congress Legislature Party had originally chosen Siddaramaiah, any change in leadership should be decided by the Legislature Party again.
The suggestion has led to intensified conversations within the party ranks, with some leaders privately admitting that the public airing of such views could impact the government’s stability narrative.
Broader context of the Congress power struggle
The Congress in Karnataka has been wrestling with managing the aspirations of both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar since forming the government. Although the leadership has repeatedly maintained that there is “no confusion,” the party’s top brass, including Mallikarjun Kharge and senior national leaders, have been pulled into discussions to ensure the government remains steady.
As Parameshwara’s name resurfaces in the leadership conversation, it signals growing discomfort among lawmakers who believe the party needs a clearer roadmap. His administrative experience and appeal within sections of the party make him a viable contender for those seeking a middle-ground choice.
Opposition senses an opportunity
The BJP has been quick to point to the Congress’s apparent internal friction, arguing that governance has taken a back seat due to constant tussles over the CM’s post. The opposition claims public welfare has suffered as leaders remain caught up in political manoeuvring.
What lies ahead
For now, Siddaramaiah continues to maintain that he will complete his full tenure, while Shivakumar insists the party is united. But Rajanna’s remarks have added another layer to the unfolding dynamics, forcing the Congress high command to quicken its attempts to bring all factions onto the same page.
Conclusion
Whether Rajanna’s comments are a one-off outburst or a reflection of deeper concerns within the Congress remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the power tussle inside Karnataka’s ruling party is far from over, and the coming weeks may bring sharper political alignments and clearer signals on the leadership question.