Talk on leadership change in KPCC refuses to die down despite strictures

The talk of a leadership change in the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee in public only intensified on Thursday, despite the recent intervention of central leaders to calm things down. ‘Natural demand’ A day after Public Works Minister Satish Jharkiholi ruffled feathers again by publicly speaking on the KPCC president’s post, Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Thursday echoed similar sentiments and said it was natural to ask for a change in the KPCC leadership since Mr. Shivakumar was also saddled with two big portfolios. These developments come despite AICC general secretary Randeep Surjewala recently asking leaders to maintain discipline and avoid public statements on leadership change. So seeking a change is quite natural.” Taking his own example, Dr. Parameshwara said, “Even I was asked to choose between being the KPCC president and being in the Cabinet, I prioritised the party and resigned as a Minister.” He said the same thing was now being expected from Mr. Shivakumar. It is the party decision and we should see what the high command will do.” Attempt to play down However, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge played down the leadership issue and said that both the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister were not sticking to their seats.