Amid ongoing speculation about potential leadership changes in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday firmly stated that he will continue in his current role and that the Chief Minister's position is not vacant. His assertion comes as several Congress leaders are seen to be positioning themselves for the post, should there be any change in leadership.
"There is no doubt in this regard, and I will continue in the position," Siddaramaiah told reporters, as per PTI, making it clear that there is no room for anyone else to claim the post. He responded to reports suggesting that some leaders were expressing their desire to become Chief Minister by emphasising that, "No one has given any statement. No one has said that they will become the Chief Minister. The seat is not vacant, then why will anyone say they will become CM? What everyone is saying is Siddaramaiah will continue."
When asked about some leaders indicating that they would aspire to the role if Siddaramaiah "instructed" them to do so, he reiterated, "When the post is not vacant, why will anyone give such instruction?" He also dismissed any speculation or doubts about his tenure, stating, "There is no doubt. I will continue."
Earlier, the speculation over the Chief Minister's position was fueled by Siddaramaiah's ongoing legal challenge in the High Court against the Governor's sanction for his prosecution in a site allotment case. Amidst these developments, several Congress leaders have been positioning themselves for the CM role in the event of a leadership change.
In response to these tensions, a group of Congress leaders wrote to Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, urging him to caution party members, including senior ministers, against making public statements that could harm the party's image and destabilize the government.
ALSO READ: Amid Karnataka CM Row, DK Shivakumar Meets Rahul Gandhi In US During 'Personal' Trip