Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar Dismisses Brother's Remarks on Karnataka Leadership Change as 'Personal'
In a significant development within Karnataka's political landscape, Women and Child Welfare Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar has publicly addressed recent comments made by her brother, MLC Channaraj Hattiholi, regarding a potential leadership change in the state. Hebbalkar firmly described Hattiholi's remarks as his personal opinion, seeking to distance herself and the government from the speculation.
Hattiholi's Controversial Claims Spark Debate
Channaraj Hattiholi recently made headlines by asserting that all 136 Congress legislators in Karnataka are aligned with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. He further claimed that both Congress workers and the general public desire Shivakumar to assume the chief minister's role. Hattiholi added that good days were around for Shivakumar following his successful discussions with the party's top leadership in New Delhi, fueling rumors of an impending shift in power.
Hebbalkar's Firm Response and Clarification
Responding to these comments, Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar addressed reporters in Belagavi, stating unequivocally that Hattiholi's statement was his personal viewpoint. She emphasized that decisions concerning the chief minister position are the exclusive domain of the Congress high command. It will take a suitable decision at the appropriate time, Hebbalkar remarked, underscoring the party's internal protocols.
She went on to caution against public debates on such matters at the state level, describing them as improper and unacceptable. Her comments appear aimed at quelling the growing speculation and maintaining party unity amidst the swirling rumors of a leadership change.
Key Points from the Incident
- MLC Channaraj Hattiholi claimed widespread support for DK Shivakumar as the next chief minister.
- He suggested that Shivakumar's recent talks in Delhi signaled positive developments.
- Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar dismissed these remarks as personal opinions, not reflecting official stances.
- She reiterated that the Congress high command holds sole authority over leadership decisions.
- Hebbalkar warned against state-level debates on the issue to prevent unnecessary controversy.
This episode highlights the delicate dynamics within the Karnataka Congress, as internal discussions about leadership continue to surface publicly. Hebbalkar's swift response underscores the party's efforts to manage perceptions and uphold discipline, while Hattiholi's comments reveal underlying tensions and aspirations among legislators. The situation remains closely watched, with the Congress high command's eventual decision poised to shape the state's political future.
