Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge ignited fresh speculation about a possible chief minister change in Karnataka. He stated that chief minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar would be summoned to New Delhi for discussions whenever necessary.
Timing of Remarks Adds to Political Drama
Kharge made these comments on Monday. This came just one day after Siddaramaiah achieved a significant milestone. He became the state's longest-serving chief minister, surpassing the previous record held by Devaraj Urs on Sunday, January 11.
The statement marks a notable shift from Kharge's earlier position. Previously, he had dismissed the internal tussle as merely a local matter. Reporters pressed him on whether the Congress high command would intervene in the ongoing rivalry for the top post. In response, Kharge clarified, "Whenever necessary, the party would call them."
Renewed Speculation Amid Delhi Visits
Speculation about a leadership switch had quieted down recently. It faded after Siddaramaiah broke the longevity record and Shivakumar expressed contentment with his current role. However, the buzz has now revived. This resurgence coincides with increased engagement between state leaders and central party functionaries.
DK Shivakumar has plans to travel to New Delhi on two upcoming dates. He will visit on Friday, January 16, and again on January 22. Sources indicate he has requested an appointment with senior leader Rahul Gandhi for the Friday meeting.
After attending a meeting concerning Assam assembly polls as an observer, Shivakumar is likely to hold separate discussions with Rahul Gandhi. These talks are expected to cover both the upcoming elections and internal affairs within Karnataka.
Shivakumar's Ambitions and Rahul's Itinerary
Shivakumar, who also serves as the president of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, made telling remarks on Sunday. He said he felt "confident" about the party's future decisions regarding his position. Many political observers interpreted this as a clear signal of his ongoing chief ministerial aspirations.
Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to arrive at Mysuru's Mandakalli airport on Tuesday. He is en route to Gudalur in Tamil Nadu. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will personally receive him in Mysuru. Siddaramaiah will also see him off later when Rahul returns to Mysuru to catch an evening flight to Delhi.
Siddaramaiah's decision to travel personally for this brief transit halt has further intensified political discussions. It underscores the significance being attached to these high-level interactions.
Kharge Launches Scathing Attack on Central Government
Earlier on Monday, Mallikarjun Kharge launched a sharp critique against the BJP-led central government. He targeted the recent repeal of the UPA-era Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The scheme has been replaced with the new G-RAM-G initiative.
Allegations of Favoring Corporates Over Poor
Kharge alleged that the BJP government is prioritizing big corporations over the welfare of the poor. He claimed resources are being systematically diverted away from essential social welfare programmes.
He demanded the immediate restoration of MGNREGA. Kharge emphasized, "MGNREGA gave people a legal right to work. It was enacted as a law under the leadership of Sonia Gandhi during the Manmohan Singh government. They have struck down an Act that was specifically designed to fill the stomachs of the poor."
He argued that the new G-RAM-G scheme would create significant obstacles. It would hinder development work at the panchayat level. Furthermore, it would impose an additional financial burden on state governments.
This is due to a revised cost-sharing ratio. The Centre-state ratio has changed from the previous 90:10 to a new 60:40 split, increasing the states' financial liability.
Broader Allegations and Planned Agitation
Kharge leveled broader accusations against the central government. He alleged a systematic targeting of key UPA-era welfare laws. These include the right to work, the right to food security, and the right to education.
He firmly rejected allegations of corruption in MGNREGA's implementation. Citing reports from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), Kharge insisted the scheme had successfully created durable public assets across the country.
Labeling the BJP as "anti-people," Kharge announced the Congress party's plan. They will launch a nationwide agitation to oppose the policy change. This protest movement will also include significant demonstrations within Karnataka.
