Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah responds to leadership crisis, says 'will go by decision of high command'

Amid the raging debate over demands to replace state leadership, which has taken center stage in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has issued his first statement regarding the crisis.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, the Karnataka CM stated that the Congress party, which currently rules the state, will follow the decision of the high command.

"It is not a matter to be discussed in public. We will go by the decision of the (party) high command," said Siddaramaiah.

This statement comes amidst growing demands within the cabinet to appoint three additional Deputy Chief Ministers from the Veerashaiva-Lingayat, SC/ST, and minority communities. Adding to the crisis, Vokkaliga seer Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swamiji of Vishwa Vokkaliga Mahasamastana Math publicly urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to step down and make way for his deputy, Shivakumar.

"Everyone has become Chief Minister and has enjoyed power, but our D. K. Shivakumar has not become the Chief Minister. So the request is, Siddaramaiah, who has experienced (the post), should please give up the power to our D. K. Shivakumar in the future, and bless him well," Chandrashekaranatha Swamiji stated.

However, earlier responding to the crisis, Shivakumar said, "There is no discussion on any Deputy Chief Minister, nor is there any question about the Chief Minister. Swamiji (Vokkaliga seer), out of affection towards me, might have spoken about me. That’s all. I request — I don’t need anyone’s recommendation. For the work we have done, our party high command will decide."