Karnataka's Health Minister, Dinesh Gundu Rao, has firmly dismissed ongoing speculation about a potential change in the state's chief ministerial position. Speaking to reporters in Mysuru on Thursday, he asserted that the final decision rests solely with the Congress high command.
High Command's Decision is Final, Says Minister
Rao emphasized that there is no confusion or internal disagreement within the party regarding the leadership. The current Chief Minister, the Deputy Chief Minister, and all senior leaders are fully committed to abiding by whatever decision the high command takes, he stated. While acknowledging that many may harbor ambitions for the top post, he clarified that the ultimate authority lies with the party's central leadership.
"Anyone may aspire to be the CM, but it is for the high command to decide," Rao said. When journalists probed if he himself was in the race, the minister deflected the question. "Why are you dragging me into this? I too have ambitions, but time and circumstances will decide. Ultimately, whatever the high command decides is final," he responded.
Sharp Criticism for 'Inactive' BJP Leadership
Shifting focus to the opposition, Dinesh Gundu Rao launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He accused the party of being "completely inactive" in addressing the concerns of Karnataka's citizens, particularly farmers.
He singled out several BJP leaders for criticism, including state president B.Y. Vijayendra, senior leader R. Ashoka, and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi. Rao claimed these leaders are limiting themselves to making speeches instead of actively taking up pressing issues, such as farmers' woes, with the central government.
"MPs are not raising their voices in Delhi. Don't they have any responsibility?" Rao questioned, highlighting what he perceives as a failure of the BJP's elected representatives to advocate for the state.
Political Stability and Future Course
The minister's statements aim to project a united front within the Congress party and quell any rumors of internal discord. By reiterating the high command's supreme authority, the party seeks to consolidate its position and focus on governance. Meanwhile, the strong criticism directed at the BJP underscores the ongoing political rivalry in Karnataka, with the Congress aiming to keep the opposition on the defensive over issues of public welfare and representation.