Political Tensions Rise in Congress Over Cabinet Appointments
Chief Minister Addresses Resignation Offers from Congress Legislators
On Tuesday, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar downplayed the internal strife within the Congress party that arose after two legislators offered to resign due to their exclusion from the cabinet. On Monday, 19 Congress MLAs took their oaths as ministers. However, senior Congress figure Yashavantraigouda V. Patil resigned from his legislative position, and Belur Gopalakrishna also indicated he might step down after not being included in the state cabinet expansion.
Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar remarked that resignations are a part of political dynamics. He criticized the two Congress leaders, stating that he and G. Parameshwara had exercised patience in hopes of securing cabinet positions. The Chief Minister emphasized that those wishing to resign cannot be stopped, urging them to consider their political futures and the party's importance. He recalled his own experience of not being appointed as a minister during the tenures of Dharam Singh and Siddaramaiah, highlighting the need for patience.
Earlier on Monday, Shivakumar reassured Congress leaders who were not included in the cabinet that they would be assigned "appropriate responsibilities." He urged the disgruntled leaders to remain patient. After the oath-taking ceremony, he acknowledged the dissatisfaction among some leaders regarding their exclusion and assured that the party would address their concerns.
He stated that everyone has their expectations, but he promised that all would receive suitable responsibilities and respect. He encouraged those who are upset to wait and maintain their composure, assuring them that their concerns would be addressed through discussions.