I am not vying for the chief ministerial position in this term,” clarified Public Works Minister Satish Jarakiholi. However, he expressed his aspirations to enter the race in the next term. Speaking with the media in Bengaluru on Friday, he emphasized that he is not aware of any potential change in the state’s chief minister. The power-sharing decisions rest with the high command, and no discussions have taken place with them, he added. Jarakiholi commended Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s initiatives, stating that he has put forth commendable programs.
Referring to senior Congress leader BK Hariprasad’s recent statement, Satish Jarakiholi acknowledged Hariprasad’s expertise in handling chief ministerial matters. Jarakiholi highlighted that Hariprasad is an integral member of the Congress family and has played a role in selecting chief ministers in certain states. However, Jarakiholi clarified that the statement made by Hariprasad about knowing how to make and remove chief ministers is not specifically related to Karnataka. Instead, Hariprasad shared his overall experience in this regard.
In response to the media’s inquiry regarding MLAs expressing discontent with the minister during the legislative meeting, he stated that the CLP meeting proceeded smoothly on Thursday. While acknowledging that there may be some issues, he emphasized that they have limitations when it comes to transfers, with only 6% being within their jurisdiction. He added that the Chief Minister should handle the remaining transfers, but some legislators remain unconvinced by this approach.
Furthermore, he discussed the upcoming high command meeting, scheduled for August 2, which will be chaired by AICC President Mallikarjuna Kharge. The meeting aims to facilitate discussions on various matters. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has also expressed his plan to conduct district-wise meetings to address the concerns of MLAs.
Additionally, state leaders are gathering in Delhi on the same date, and AICC President Mallikarjuna Kharge will convene a meeting with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and ministers, including DCM DK Shivakumar. Moreover, it has been reported that senior Congress leader BK Hariprasad, who previously voiced his dissatisfaction with the Chief Minister, has been called for a discussion (bulao) by Mallikarjun Kharge.
