Bengaluru is buzzing with political intrigue as a Congress MLA has thrown down the gauntlet in Karnataka’s leadership tussle. Iqbal Hussain, a vocal supporter of Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, asserted on Thursday that nearly 80 to 90 party legislators are pushing for Shivakumar to take the helm as Chief Minister.
Speaking to reporters in Ramanagara, Hussain emphasized Shivakumar’s relentless struggle and hard work as reasons he deserves the top job. ‘This change would boost the government’s performance and strengthen our position ahead of upcoming elections,’ he declared. While unsure of the exact numbers aligned with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Hussain confirmed widespread discussions among MLAs favoring a leadership shift.
‘All 140 Congress MLAs are hoping for change, with 80-90 actively discussing leadership transition. We stand firmly behind Shivakumar,’ he added.
Meanwhile, tensions are simmering at the party high command level. Sources reveal that Congress leadership has taken serious note of a foreign trip by MLAs perceived as close to Siddaramaiah. Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala has demanded details on the tour’s nature, participants, and any political motivations.
The trip was ostensibly organized to calm leadership change rumors, even as Siddaramaiah ramped up budget preparations post-session. Notably, Shivakumar skipped a departmental meeting, citing prior permission.
Animal Husbandry Minister K. Venkatesh revealed invitations for the trip but declined, clarifying it wasn’t ministry-sponsored. Siddaramaiah dismissed concerns, stating the MLAs funded their personal vacations.
In a cryptic update, Shivakumar confirmed meetings with party leaders at Sonia Gandhi’s 10 Janpath residence. ‘Time will tell,’ he said, fueling speculation of an imminent shake-up in Karnataka’s Congress camp.