New Delhi, September 11 (Daily Kiran) : Former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met with Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha, in New Delhi on September 11. The two discussed a range of political issues affecting the Congress party and Karnataka’s political landscape.
Sources within the party indicated that Siddaramaiah raised concerns about vacant cabinet positions in Karnataka, urging party leadership to fill these roles promptly. He also called for the immediate implementation of the caste census report in the state, emphasizing the need for swift action.
This meeting comes at a time when Siddaramaiah is actively seeking to secure cabinet positions for some of his close allies following a recent cabinet expansion. Reports suggest he was dissatisfied with the second phase of the cabinet expansion, as several individuals he supported were excluded, while others he did not endorse were included.
This situation has reportedly led to tensions between Siddaramaiah, the Congress high command, and Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. In light of these developments, Siddaramaiah requested a meeting with Rahul Gandhi.
After their discussion, Siddaramaiah is expected to meet AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal at his residence. This meeting is likely to focus on Karnataka’s political situation, organizational matters, and preparations for upcoming elections.
Since stepping down as Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah has largely remained silent. However, recent comments by Congress MLA Pradeep Eshwar, who suggested Siddaramaiah might return as Chief Minister, have stirred political controversy within the party.
Siddaramaiah has previously indicated on multiple occasions his intention to retire from active electoral politics. Sources reveal that Rahul Gandhi advised him against making further statements about retirement, warning that such remarks could create confusion within the party and affect its political prospects.
Siddaramaiah’s public discussions about retirement have fueled speculation regarding his future role in politics. The Congress leadership is currently focused on strengthening the party ahead of upcoming local body elections, as well as the next assembly and Lok Sabha elections. Political circles in Karnataka are closely monitoring the meetings between Siddaramaiah and senior central leaders, as these discussions are critical for addressing various demands related to cabinet representation, caste census implementation, leadership roles, and political opportunities.
Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara clarified that Siddaramaiah’s visit to Delhi was not motivated by any dissatisfaction. He stated that if Siddaramaiah were truly upset, he would not have resigned from the Chief Minister’s position.
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