The political landscape in Karnataka is buzzing with new discussions following remarks by Yathindra Siddaramaiah, the son of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He has put forth minister Satish Jarkiholi as a potential successor to his father, thereby challenging the prevailing narrative that Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is the sole alternative.
Yathindra, who is also a member of the Karnataka Legislative Council, stated at a recent event in Belagavi that Jarkiholi, aged 63, should be mentored by the 77-year-old Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, given that the CM is in the concluding phase of his political journey. This statement comes after Yathindra had previously asserted that his father would complete his full five-year term, which is due to end in 2028.
Speaking in Kannada, Yathindra elaborated on his choice, saying, “My father is now in the final phase of his political life, at the end stage of his political career. At such a time, we need a leader who can guide those who hold rational and progressive ideologies, and take charge of the leadership. Mr Jarkiholi will take on that responsibility. I believe that he will lead us as a model for all politicians and young leaders who believe in the ideology of the Congress party. Therefore, it is very difficult to find a leader with such integrity and principle. I request that Mr Jarkiholi continue the work he is doing.” Jarkiholi was also present at the event.
This suggestion positions Jarkiholi, who is perceived to be aligned with the Siddaramaiah camp, as a key contender for leadership succession. Meanwhile, Shivakumar has consistently maintained that he is not in a rush to assume the Chief Minister’s post. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has also frequently refuted reports suggesting his imminent resignation.
Recent speculation about Shivakumar’s potential elevation began after Congress MP LR Shivarame Gowda commented on the matter. Gowda remarked, “There’s no doubt about Shivakumar eventually becoming chief minister, but the final decision rests with the high command. They understand how to manage the party and balance both the chief minister and the deputy chief minister. In the end, hard work always pays off.”
Siddaramaiah, however, reiterated his commitment to completing his term, stating, “I will be the chief minister for a full five-year term.” His son, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, echoed this sentiment when asked in Tumkur, dismissing rumours of a change in leadership after the Bihar elections as false and emphasizing that any such decision would be made by the party high command and MLAs.
Currently, Satish Jarkiholi serves as the Minister for Public Works in the Karnataka government. Yathindra has lauded him as the sole leader possessing the necessary qualities of a rational and progressive leader for the current political climate.