Supporters Rally for G. Parameshwara as Karnataka's Next Chief Minister
Support for G. Parameshwara Grows
On Saturday, supporters of Karnataka's Home Minister and Congress leader G. Parameshwara gathered near Indira Bhavan in Delhi, advocating for his appointment as the next Chief Minister of Karnataka. Their backing stems from his efforts to consolidate support from the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, highlighting his strong standing within the community.
One supporter expressed, "We have come from Karnataka to demand a Dalit Chief Minister. If Siddaramaiah is ever removed from the position, G. Parameshwara should be appointed in his place." Another supporter added, "We want to see G. Parameshwara as the Chief Minister. I am from Tumkur in Karnataka, and if there is a change in leadership, we want G. Parameshwara to take over... we need a Dalit Chief Minister."
Complex Path to Chief Ministership
However, the journey to the Chief Minister's office is complicated, as Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is also a contender for the role and is reportedly influencing the party's high command. These protests reveal the internal strife within the Karnataka Congress, where various leaders are vying for power. The ongoing dispute over the Chief Minister position reflects a continuous power struggle within the party, which intensified after the government completed half of its term, sparking speculation about leadership changes. Key figures in this contention include Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, and G. Parameshwara, a prominent Dalit leader.
Parameshwara's Bid for Leadership
G. Parameshwara has emphasized his contributions to the party's success while signaling his candidacy for the top position. He stated, "I was naturally in the race at that time, as it is a tradition in the Congress party for the PCC president to often be given a chance." Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge clarified that any confusion regarding leadership is only at the local level and not within the party's high command. Decisions regarding leadership changes will be made after discussions with Rahul Gandhi.