Vijayanagara, Karnataka, Feb 26: Karnataka Minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan has firmly rejected speculations regarding a leadership change in the state, asserting that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remains untouchable. Dismissing any possibility of a power shift, Khan emphasized that Siddaramaiah is "like fire," warning that anyone attempting to challenge him will be "burnt."
Addressing reporters, Khan clarified that the Chief Minister’s post and the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President's position remain occupied. "D K Shivakumar is the KPCC President, and Siddaramaiah is the Chief Minister. There is no vacancy for discussions to arise," he stated.
Khan’s remarks come amid speculation within Karnataka’s political circles regarding the possibility of a "rotational chief minister" arrangement within the ruling Congress party. Deputy CM D K Shivakumar has long been a strong aspirant for the top post, fueling talk of a leadership shift later this year. Reports had previously suggested that a power-sharing formula was negotiated between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar after the Congress’s victory in the May 2023 Assembly elections. However, no official confirmation was ever provided.
Despite the speculations, Khan reiterated that Congress functions under the authority of its high command, and any decision regarding leadership changes would ultimately rest with the party’s top brass.
When questioned about demands from within the party for a Dalit Chief Minister, Khan acknowledged that leaders from various communities—including Dalits, Scheduled Tribes, Lingayats, Vokkaligas, and minorities—naturally aspire to the position.
Meanwhile, discussions have also emerged regarding a possible change in KPCC leadership, with some within Congress suggesting that Shivakumar should relinquish his party post in accordance with the "one man, one post" policy. Having completed four years as KPCC president, Shivakumar is serving an extended term.
While internal debates continue, Khan’s strong remarks reinforce the stability of the current leadership and signal that any significant political shifts will only occur at the discretion of the Congress high command.
Last updated by a enewsx: