Bengaluru: Karnataka Cooperation Minister K.N. Rajanna has stirred political speculation by stating that “political developments” are likely after September, and that the ruling Congress party has multiple power centres, unlike during its previous tenure from 2013 to 2018.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Rajanna—considered close to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah—suggested that the CM is now operating under a more complex power structure.
“Let September get over… there will be developments in state politics,” Rajanna remarked when asked about possible leadership changes or cabinet reshuffle.
The minister contrasted the current dynamics with Siddaramaiah’s earlier tenure:
“During 2013–2018, there was only one power centre. Now there are many—one, two, three… as many as you want. When there are several power centres, there is bound to be more political activity. In such a scenario, Siddaramaiah must manage both the government and the party accordingly,” he said.
Leadership Under Scrutiny
Rajanna’s comments are viewed as significant amid ongoing murmurs of a leadership transition, possibly involving a power-sharing arrangement between Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar. While the Congress high command has previously issued firm instructions to quash such speculation, the debate persists within party circles.
He acknowledged that many feel Siddaramaiah isn’t projecting the same leadership aura as during his first term as CM, largely due to internal party dynamics.
“You may say that Siddaramaiah is not the same as he was in 2013–18, and many in the public think the same. There are too many power centres now,” Rajanna noted.
Cabinet Reshuffle on the Cards?
Asked about a possible cabinet reshuffle, PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi said,
“There may be some changes, not big changes… I don’t see any major shakeup, but some adjustments could happen.”
Jarkiholi’s statement fuels further speculation about minor tweaks in the cabinet, while also hinting at possible reshuffling of party roles, such as the KPCC President’s post, currently held by D.K. Shivakumar.
Backdrop of Discontent
These remarks come at a time when several Congress MLAs have openly criticized the functioning of their own government, including allegations of administrative inaction, delays in fund allocation, and corruption in departments such as Housing.
Despite a show of unity following Siddaramaiah’s recent meeting with the Congress high command in Delhi, dissent remains simmering beneath the surface. Observers believe the months following September could be crucial for the stability and leadership direction of the Karnataka Congress.
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