No Discussion on Chief Minister Change During Rahul Gandhi's Karnataka Visit, Says DK Shivakumar
Clarification from Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister
On Wednesday, DK Shivakumar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka and the state Congress president, clarified that there was no conversation regarding a change in the Chief Minister's position during Rahul Gandhi's visit to the state. Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar stated, "As the Congress president in Karnataka, I can confirm that these meetings and discussions follow protocol and cannot be publicly disclosed... There has been no discussion about changing the Chief Minister. Rahul Gandhi has encouraged us to continue our good work, and we will proceed accordingly."
Discussion on Development Issues
Shivakumar further mentioned that the meeting also covered various development-related topics, including the progress of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA), and deliberated on the political landscape in Karnataka. He remarked, "We discussed the advancements related to NREGA and also talked about the BJP's political activities in the state. In response to his upcoming trip to Delhi, Shivakumar noted, 'I will be traveling to Delhi on January 16.'"
Invitation from Rahul Gandhi
Earlier in the day, Congress MLA Ashok Patton revealed that senior party leader Rahul Gandhi had invited Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to Delhi, although the date for the meeting has yet to be finalized. Speaking to a media house in Bengaluru, Patton stated that Gandhi had conveyed this message to both leaders the previous day. He added, "Rahul Gandhi asked them to come to Delhi, but the date is still to be determined. Once the date is set, they will travel there."
Future Plans and Cabinet Reshuffle
Patton also mentioned that they might head to Delhi after Sankranti, and everything would be resolved following the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister's visit. He highlighted the desire for a cabinet reshuffle, stating, "There is a demand for changes in the cabinet. We are all advocating for a reshuffle, and I am also interested in a ministerial position."