The remark drew attention amid ongoing allegations against Siddaramaiah in Mysore Urban Development Authority (Muda) case.Parameshwara was responding to cooperation minister KN Rajanna’s earlier comment expressing support for his “promotion“. “I will also be very happy in that case,” Parameshwara added.
Siddaramaiah’s supporters had earlier advocated a Dalit CM if a replacement was inevitable but recent reports suggest support for Satish Jarkiholi, a ST neta, as a potential successor.
Parameshwara had previously indicated that he did not see himself as a CM candidate. However, ongoing speculation suggests that as the most senior Dalit functionary after AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge he could be a key contender if Siddaramaiah is forced to resign due to legal challenges related to the governor’s decision to allow him to be prosecuted.
Congress, meanwhile, will proceed with its “Raj Bhavan Chalo” protest Saturday. The march is aimed at exerting pressure on governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot to reconsider his decision to allow Siddaramaiah to be prosecuted.
Reports indicated a possible delay since the HC will continue hearing the matter, but Parameshwara said: “Siddaramaiah and deputy CM DK Shivakumar, who is also the PCC chief, have decided to organise ‘Raj Bhavan Chalo’ programme. The Muda case has taken a political twist. No matter what we talk about in court, it has taken a political colour. Hence our cadres will protest to the governor.” He said MPs, MLAs, & MLCs will participate.
Congress plans protests in all districts, while continuing its legal battle. If these efforts do not yield results, functionaries are considering meeting President Murmu. “We gave ample evidence to the governor but he did not take them into account,” Parameshwara said. “We don’t know what the court will decide, but we have to inform the governor as well.”