Amid the ongoing power struggles within Karnataka’s ruling Congress, party president Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D K Shivakumar to unite and focus on the state’s development. Speaking at the inauguration of the Kalyana Patha project at Jewargi, Kharge emphasized that working in different directions would make progress difficult. The project, set to cost Rs 1,000 crore, aims to improve infrastructure in the region.
Kharge, who praised Siddaramaiah for presenting a historic 16th budget, called it a “good budget” and highlighted the benefits it would bring to the state’s people. He also commended Shivakumar for his previous contributions as the Minister for Energy, Irrigation, and as the state Congress president, recognizing his dedication to the party and the public.
Addressing the gathering, Kharge expressed his desire for both leaders to collaborate for the state’s progress. “Together, they should focus on development. If we overlook development, people will not support us,” he stated, signaling the importance of unity within the party. He further reiterated, “If they go together in the same direction, it will be correct. If they go in different directions, it will be difficult.”
There has been much speculation in Karnataka’s political circles regarding a potential leadership change under a “rotational chief minister” system, with Shivakumar being a strong aspirant for the CM position. While some Congress leaders have voiced support for his aspirations, others, close to Siddaramaiah, have denied any plans for a leadership shift, asserting that Siddaramaiah will complete his full term.
Kharge, reflecting on his own political journey, remarked that while some leaders like Shivakumar and former PM Deve Gowda seek divine intervention, he works towards progress by engaging with the people. “Good should happen, and good should be done,” he concluded.
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