As speculation grows over a possible change in the Karnataka Congress leadership, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday clarified that any such decision lies solely with the party’s high command.
“It is in the hands of the party high command. No one can say what is going on in the high command. It is left to them, and they have the right to take further action, but no one should create problems unnecessarily,” Kharge told reporters.
Kharge’s remarks come as Congress General Secretary and Karnataka in-charge Randeep Surjewala arrived in Bengaluru to hold meetings with state legislators amid talks of internal differences and organisational reshuffling.
The Congress chief stated that Surjewala’s visit was routine and intended to gather information on the current situation in the state party unit.
“Surjewala has come to the state. He will ask what’s going on and gather information about what has happened. Based on that, we’ll see what needs to be done next,” Kharge said.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also dismissed any talk of leadership change, asserting that his government would remain “intact” for the full five-year term.
“Our government will last for five years like a rock. We are united,” he said, calling Surjewala’s visit part of regular party affairs to strengthen the organisation.
Home Minister G Parameshwara echoed similar sentiments, noting that Surjewala might be discussing preparations for the upcoming Zilla Panchayat and Taluk Panchayat elections, and that high command intervention was natural if differences arose.
“Sometimes the high command intervenes — that’s their job. It’s natural when minor differences arise,” Parameshwara said, adding that his own meeting with Surjewala would be personal.
Surjewala’s Karnataka visit also follows remarks by state minister KN Rajanna, who hinted at potential political developments in September, fuelling further speculation.
Despite the buzz, the party leadership has sought to project unity and maintain focus on governance and organisational readiness ahead of local body elections.
