Bengaluru, April 4 — Karnataka PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi on Friday acknowledged that his name, along with Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre's, is reportedly under consideration by the Congress high command for the post of Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president. However, he emphasized that no official communication has been made to him so far and expressed readiness to support whoever is chosen for the role.
Awaiting Clarity from CM’s Delhi Visit
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Jarkiholi said, “There is no clarity yet on whether the high command is planning a change in the KPCC leadership. Perhaps, we will get a clearer picture after the Chief Minister returns from Delhi.”Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, currently in the national capital, met with All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday and had earlier held discussions with senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.
No Formal Discussion Yet, Says Jarkiholi
When asked about discussions around his possible elevation to KPCC president, Jarkiholi responded, “I don’t know who has mentioned my name to the high command. I have seen media reports about it, but there has been no formal discussion with me.”He further added, “I have not asked the high command for the post. If and when they talk to me, I will share my opinion.”
Jarkiholi, a prominent Scheduled Tribe leader and a close aide of CM Siddaramaiah, has previously expressed interest in the KPCC president position. His name continues to be floated among the frontrunners, especially as internal calls grow louder for restructuring in line with the party’s "one man, one post" policy.
Shivakumar's Dual Role Under Scrutiny
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar currently holds dual responsibilities as KPCC president. However, a section within the party is pressing for a leadership change, arguing that the dual role contradicts the party's stated principles.Commenting on whether he would support Eshwar Khandre if appointed, Jarkiholi said, “My support will be there, whoever it is. There is no question of any doubts on that.”
High Command Holds the Final Say
On whether he remains in the race or is withdrawing, Jarkiholi clarified, “It is not a question of me staying in the race or withdrawing. It is for the high command to decide. The party will decide based on their calculations, not our requests. One has to wait.”He also denied having any discussions with the high command about recent reports concerning alleged honeytrap attempts involving Minister K N Rajanna during a visit to Delhi.
The party's next move is likely to hinge on Siddaramaiah’s briefing upon his return from the capital, as anticipation builds around a possible reshuffle in the state leadership.