AICC's Surjewala Visits Karnataka Amid Discontent and Rumors

Bengaluru, Jun 30 (PTI) – The All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary overseeing Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, has initiated discussions with party legislators amid brewing discontent and rumors of potential leadership changes within the ruling party.

Party insiders reveal that during his three-day visit, Surjewala is expected to engage mainly in one-on-one meetings with the legislators. On Monday, he was slated to meet with MLAs from the Chikkaballapura and Kolar regions.

The goal is to listen to their grievances and gather feedback regarding the government's performance, according to sources.

These meetings have taken on added significance as a few MLAs have expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s performance.

The timing is notable, with speculation of potential leadership shifts resurfacing following statements from Cooperation Minister K N Rajanna, who suggested "revolutionary" political developments might occur post-September.

There's also talk within party circles about a possible cabinet reshuffle and a change in the state Congress presidency, a position currently held by Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar.

Meanwhile, addressing reporters, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge stated that Surjewala's findings and feedback will guide the party's decisions moving forward.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, speaking from Mysuru, noted, “He is the AICC General Secretary in-charge. He will solicit the opinions of MLAs, address their concerns, and evaluate what steps are necessary to fortify the organization. It’s his responsibility.”

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara remarked that Surjewala's regular visits are to review both party and government affairs.

He will assess political dynamics, party programs, and potential issues within the party or government, offering guidance in his capacity as the in-charge General Secretary.

Surjewala is also expected to address issues raised by certain MLAs in recent weeks. Aland MLA B R Patil accused the Housing Department of bribery in public housing allocations, while Kagwad MLA Raju Kage hinted at resignation due to delays in development projects and fund releases, claiming the administration has "completely collapsed."

These statements have placed the ruling Congress on the defensive, with opposition parties BJP and JD(S) criticizing the government for "rampant corruption" and calling for the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Housing Minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan.

After returning from New Delhi, Siddaramaiah met with both Patil and Kage last week and reportedly assured them their concerns would be addressed, urging them to refrain from publicly criticizing the government.

As the Congress government approaches its two-year tenure mark, demands for a cabinet reshuffle are mounting.

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