Siddaramaiah stands firm, says will follow high command’s lead on CM's post

Bengaluru: Shutting down speculation about leadership change in the state, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday, firmly reiterated that both he and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar are fully committed to abiding by the Congress high command’s decision.

The question of change in leadership resurfaced during the press conference, following the All India Congress Committee (AICC) OBC Advisory Council meeting.

When asked whether there would be a change of chief minister in Karnataka — a state led by an OBC leader — AICC OBC President Anil Jaihind clarified, “There is no such proposal. We all are in favour of Siddaramaiah.”

However, Jaihind appeared rattled by the question. “You know Congress policies and principles; they encourage the participation of the Backward Classes.”

While Hariprasad was whispering, Siddaramaiah told Jaihind that the matter was the High Command’s decision.

“Whatever happens, the High Command will make the decision. Both Shivakumar and I will abide by whatever decision the High Command takes.”