In Belagavi on Sunday, Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi addressed the recent statement by Congress MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah, who is also the son of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Jarkiholi firmly stated that there is “no confusion” regarding Yathindra’s remarks.
He explained that when Yathindra mentioned his potential to “succeed Mr. Siddaramaiah,” he was referring to leading the AHINDA movement in Karnataka once Chief Minister Siddaramaiah steps back from active public life. The Minister emphasized that the statement was about ideological continuity and advancing the AHINDA movement, not about political succession for the Chief Minister’s office.
Jarkiholi further stressed that it would be incorrect to interpret the statement as an indication that he would become the next Chief Minister, or that Mr. Siddaramaiah would prematurely vacate his current position. “It solely concerns ideological leadership and the AHINDA movement; there is no other meaning to it,” he reiterated.
When questioned about a potential Cabinet reshuffle or expansion, Satish Jarkiholi acknowledged that such discussions have been ongoing for some time. However, he clarified that the final decision rests with the party’s high command.
“There had been talks about a Cabinet reshuffle after 30 months, and I believe those discussions are now nearing their conclusion. This matter may have already been deliberated at the Delhi level. All actions will proceed according to the high command’s directives,” he stated. He added that while many party leaders are eligible for ministerial roles, there are only 34 available positions in the Council of Ministers. The high command will ultimately decide on who will be replaced, and whether existing ministerial responsibilities will be adjusted.
Regarding this specific issue, Jarkiholi noted, “Mr. Siddaramaiah has already provided his clarification, and I am not authorized to comment further on it.”
He also commented on Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda’s statement, deeming it standard procedure. “If the high command requests us to resign, we will have to comply to make way for new members,” he concluded.