Bengaluru, February 6: Political tensions have escalated in Karnataka following remarks made by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah‘s son and Congress MLC Yatindra. Yatindra asserted that there will be no change in leadership in the state and that his father will complete his full term. In response, Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress President D.K. Shivakumar humorously remarked that the Chief Minister’s son is essentially their high command, indicating he will abide by whatever Yatindra states.
Shivakumar made these comments while addressing media inquiries at Mangaluru Airport on Friday. The questions were prompted by Yatindra’s statement that the high command has given a green light for his father to remain Chief Minister for the next five years, leaving no room for speculation.
“I consider him our high command,” Shivakumar said. “Whatever he says, I will respectfully follow. Since he has made a statement as if he is the high command himself, let’s accept him as such.”
Responding to a statement by MLA Shivaganga Basavaraj, who sought clarification from the high command regarding a power-sharing agreement, Shivakumar stated, “I will not respond to Basavaraj or Yatindra’s statements. Any response should come from the leadership in Delhi.”
He added, “I am in Mangaluru today to participate in the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Congress building. My six years as KPCC president will be completed on March 10, and we are starting construction on this occasion.”
D.K. Shivakumar also announced plans to lay the foundation for 100 Congress offices in March, stating, “Whether AICC sets a date or not, I am fully prepared and will begin work.”
Addressing allegations that Muslims were not invited to the foundation-laying event, Shivakumar emphasized that Congress operates on principles rather than caste. “We need people from all castes and religions. We do not engage in Politics based on caste or religion. Such accusations come from envious individuals.”
It is noteworthy that Yatindra Siddaramaiah claimed the party high command has rejected demands for a leadership change, affirming that his father will remain Chief Minister for five years.