Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Thursday expressed strong disapproval of Minister Satish Jarkiholi’s remarks suggesting a change in the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) leadership.
Addressing the media, Shivakumar, who has been KPCC President since 2020, said, “Can anyone obtain this position through the media or from a shop? It is earned as a reward for the work we do. Such notions are part of a new and misguided trend’.
Jarkiholi had earlier stated that a full-time leader was needed for the KPCC to ensure dedicated attention to party affairs. However, he later issued a clarification, stating, “I never spoke about replacing DK Shivakumar. My comments were aimed at strengthening the organisation and preparing for upcoming elections.”
He also alleged that his remarks were misrepresented by a section of media.
Reacting to the developments, Congress State Working President Manjunath Bhandary cautioned senior leaders against making public statements on sensitive matters. “Leadership decisions, including changes to the KPCC presidency, are the prerogative of the party high command and should not be discussed in public forums. Such matters must be addressed internally,” he stated.
Bhandary reiterated the authority of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, urging discipline among party members.
The Congress high command has reportedly sought a detailed report on the statements made by Jarkiholi and others.
