Karnataka minister warns: touch Siddaramaiah, face consequences

B.Z. Zameer Ahmad Khan, the State Minister for Housing and Waqf, has stirred controversy with his fiery remarks amid internal clashes within the Karnataka Congress.

A staunch supporter of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Zameer warned, "If anyone dares to touch CM Siddaramaiah, they will be reduced to ashes," indicating the intense loyalty he holds towards Siddaramaiah.

This remark surfaces amidst ongoing discourse surrounding power-sharing and potential leadership changes within the party, specifically targeting D.K. Shivakumar, the Deputy CM and current Karnataka Congress President. Speaking in Ballari, Zameer expressed that Siddaramaiah's presence, akin to fire, is untouchable, adding a layer of intensity to the ongoing power struggle.

Responding to inquiries about the internal rift, Zameer clarified that no leadership positions, including that of CM or the state party president, are currently open for discussion. "Siddaramaiah as CM and Shivakumar as KPCC President—these roles are intact," he affirmed.

Zameer further elaborated on the stature of CM Siddaramaiah, calling him 'Tagaru'—a term of endearment linked to Siddaramaiah's shepherd community roots—highlighting his formidable nature against challengers.

While acknowledging varied community aspirations for leadership, Zameer emphasized that any decision regarding leadership changes rests with the Congress high command.

Discussions around a potential leadership shift have been brewing, as ministers close to Siddaramaiah, such as G. Parameshwara, K.N. Rajanna, and Satish Jarkiholi, reportedly express dissatisfaction and have approached the high command in Delhi, advocating for a new state president.

Simultaneously, Shivakumar has been lobbying to secure his position, underscoring the charged environment within the party. The high command's impending decision could potentially reshape Karnataka's political landscape, as local factions anxiously await clarity over their leadership structure.