Is Satish Jarkiholi DK Shivakumar's new rival? Yathindra Siddramaiah names Congress leader as Karnataka CM's successor

Amid ongoing uncertainties over change in leadership in Karnataka Congress, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's son, Yathindra, kicked up a fresh row on Wednesday, suggesting senior leader and Public Works Department Minister Satish Jarkiholi as his father's political successor. Yathindra's comments come amidst speculations over "November revolution".

 

Addressing an event in Belgavi, Yathindra said, "He (Siddaramaiah) is at the fag end of his political life. At such a time, a leader is needed to guide and lead those who have progressive thinking, ideologically." Suggesting Jarkiholi's name, Yathindra said, "It is difficult to have leaders who are committed to principles, but Jarkiholi is doing his job with commitment. He should continue to do so."

 

Yathindra's comments come amid rumours that there could be a cabinet reshuffle in Karnataka in November. The Congress government in Karnataka will complete halfway mark in November this year. Dubbed "November revolution", Karnataka Congress president D.K. Shivakumar is likely to be anointed as chief minister for the remaining period of the government. However, later addressing presspersons, Yathindra ruled out any talks about leadership change.

 

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar refused to comment on leadership change in the state. "I don't want anyone to discuss me. What Siddaramaiah and I have said -- we will abide by the party direction and work together. I'm committed to it," Shivakumar told presspersons on Wednesday. 

 

While Siddaramaiah has constantly reiterated that he will complete a full five-year term as chief minister, Shivakumar has maintained that a final decision will be taken by the Congress high command. 

 

There was stiff competition between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for the chief minister's post after the Congress won the Karnataka assembly elections in May 2023. However, an agreement was reached between the leaders, with Siddaramaiah becoming chief minister and Shivakumar his deputy. 

India