Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated on Tuesday that he would fully respect and abide by any decision made by the party’s high command and MLAs regarding his leadership position. This comes amidst ongoing discussions about a possible leadership change in the state.
Speaking to the media in his hometown of Mysuru, CM Siddaramaiah addressed questions about his potential replacement. When asked about former minister and senior leader R.V. Deshpande’s statement expressing readiness to take over as Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah responded, “The selection of the Chief Minister is up to the party MLAs and the high command. Whatever decision they make, I will follow.”
When teased by the media about appearing more refreshed despite the BJP’s claims that he looked worn down due to the ongoing MUDA case, CM Siddaramaiah chuckled and said, “The opposition has been dishonest in this matter. If their lies are exposed, it will be difficult for them. I have not lied, issued false statements, or made any mistakes.”
Regarding allegations that the Congress government is using a judicial commission’s report on Covid-19 against the BJP, CM Siddaramaiah explained that the report is set to be presented before the cabinet on Thursday. “I am not aware of the commission’s recommendations yet. We will review them,” he stated.
Responding to BJP MP and former state Health Minister K. Sudhakar’s claims that the report is being used as a political tool, Siddaramaiah remarked, “There is no need for concern if one’s role is clear. Why is he so anxious? Let’s wait until the report is made public. Sudhakar seems guilty and mentally disturbed, perhaps because he knows he is guilty.”
Reports have suggested that a Rs 7,000 crore scam was uncovered during the previous BJP government’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. CM Siddaramaiah, however, stated that he had no prior knowledge of the alleged scam. “My earlier allegations about the pandemic’s mismanagement and corruption are separate issues. Once the report is presented to the cabinet, we will take appropriate action.”
On the topic of the suspension of MUDA’s former commissioner, the CM said he was unaware of the specifics and the contents of the suspension order. “Once the commission appointed to investigate the MUDA scam submits its report, it will be thoroughly considered,” he added.
When questioned about the opposition from Mysuru royal family member Pramoda Devi Wadiyar regarding the Shree Chamundeshwari Kshetra Development Authority meeting, CM Siddaramaiah clarified that the meeting was held in compliance with court orders. “We are following the court’s directives, not the instructions of any MP,” he concluded, responding to BJP MP Yaduveer Wadiyar’s criticism of the move as illegal.
