Bengaluru, May 27 (IANS) Amid intense speculation over a possible leadership change in Karnataka, AICC General Secretary and Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala on Wednesday dismissed reports of any “power-sharing” arrangement within the Congress and asserted that no decision regarding a change of Chief Minister had been officially discussed.

He, however, avoided giving a direct response regarding rumours surrounding Siddaramaiah’s possible resignation.

Surjewala praised both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for their contributions to the party.

Addressing reporters in Bengaluru, Surjewala stated: “There is no such thing as a power-sharing arrangement. Yesterday’s meeting was held regarding the Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council elections. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar, Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, and K.C. Venugopal participated in the discussions.”

Referring to the ongoing political speculation, Surjewala dismissed the reports as mere rumours.

“Many people are spreading different stories. As of now, no Congress Legislature Party meeting has been convened. All these are speculative reports,” he clarified.

He reiterated that both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar were important leaders for the party and maintained that any decision would be taken keeping the interests of Karnataka’s people in mind.

“Siddaramaiah is a very important leader. Shivakumar has emerged through organisational work. Whatever decision is taken, we will inform the people of Karnataka. Decisions are not taken for individuals but in the interest of Karnataka and its people,” he stated.

“Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is a very important leader and has his own political stature. He has served as Chief Minister twice,” Surjewala said.

Praising Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar, Surjewala stated that Shivakumar had risen through the ranks as a youth leader and had worked under several Chief Ministers.

“Shivakumar has grown as a leader from the grassroots level. He has worked under many Chief Ministers. We do not make decisions in favour of individuals. Decisions are made in the interest of the people,” he said.

Surjewala further stated that extensive discussions had been held with Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar regarding candidates for the Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council elections.

“We met our Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, Mallikarjun Kharge, and LoP Rahul Gandhi. K.C. Venugopal was also present. Detailed discussions were held with the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister regarding the Rajya Sabha and Council elections. Several names have been suggested,” he stated.

He added that discussions with both leaders may continue over the next two days to identify the most suitable candidates.

“Discussions may continue for another two days. The leadership will decide who would be the most suitable candidates to ensure better representation for both the party and the state,” Surjewala said.

–IANS

mka/dan