Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah's Son Suggests Father Should Mentor Satish Jarkiholi in Political Succession Plan

Yathindra Siddaramaiah indicated his father could mentor someone like PWD minister Satish Jarkiholi.

Bengaluru:

In a statement that will likely cause political ripples amid ongoing speculation about leadership transition in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's son has remarked that his father is entering the final phase of his political career and should become a 'margdarshak' (mentor) to cabinet colleague Satish Jarkiholi.

As recently as last month, Siddaramaiah had to publicly refute reports suggesting he would step down to allow Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to take over. This speculation had been amplified by Congress MP LR Shivarame Gowda's statement calling for clarity from party leadership on this matter.

"DK Shivakumar will undoubtedly become chief minister eventually, though the final decision lies with the high command. They know how to effectively manage the party and maintain balance between the chief minister and deputy. Ultimately, dedication always receives its due recognition," Gowda had stated.

"I will serve as chief minister for the complete five-year term," Siddaramaiah had repeatedly assured reporters.

Despite official denials, party insiders have consistently mentioned two distinct factions - one supporting Siddaramaiah and another backing Shivakumar. Public Works Department Minister Satish Jarkiholi is considered a strong ally in the Siddaramaiah camp.

Political observers were therefore taken aback when Yathindra Siddaramaiah announced on Wednesday that the chief minister is approaching the end of his political career and suggested he could mentor someone like Jarkiholi.

Speaking at an event in Belagavi, which Jarkiholi also attended, Yathindra, a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC), stated, "My father is in the final phase of his political career. At this stage, he needs a leader with strong ideology and progressive vision whom he can guide as a 'margdarshak'. Jarkiholi is someone capable of upholding Congress party's core principles and providing effective leadership. I strongly believe finding a leader with such ideological commitment is uncommon, and I hope he continues his commendable work."

When questioned about these remarks after the event, Yathindra clarified that he was simply suggesting that since his father has declared he won't contest elections beyond 2028, he could mentor individuals who share his political philosophy.

"I merely stated that my father champions social justice and the secular values of the Congress party. Satish Jarkiholi embodies similar ideals and convictions. Since my father has indicated he won't participate in elections after 2028, I suggested he could serve as a 'margdarshak' to many emerging party leaders who share these principles," he explained.

When pressed about succession matters, Siddaramaiah's son added, "Indeed, Satish Jarkiholi certainly possesses the capability to succeed Siddaramaiah after his retirement. He ranks among the few capable leaders with genuine ideological commitment."

Calculated Strategy?

Political analysts suggest Yathindra's statements might be deliberate, intended to signal to Shivakumar and his supporters that influence will remain within the Siddaramaiah faction.

Publicly, Shivakumar has maintained that he isn't eager for promotion to the chief minister position and has cautioned Congress officials and workers against discussing leadership changes.

"Where is this discussion about power sharing coming from? I'm the one saying this. Such topics shouldn't be discussed," he had stated last month.

When asked to respond to Yathindra Siddaramaiah's comments, the deputy chief minister replied on Wednesday, "You should ask him about his statements, how can I comment? I don't need others discussing my position. Siddaramaiah and I have clearly stated that we follow the high command's direction and continue working collaboratively. I remain committed to that approach."