Rift In Karnataka Congress? Randeep Surjewala To Visit Bengaluru On Monday

Amid rising dissent and political uncertainty, the Congress leadership has launched a fresh damage control initiative in Karnataka. Senior leader and Congress General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala is visiting Bengaluru for two days to pacify disgruntled MLAs and address the escalating internal rift within the state unit.

The move comes on the heels of recent closed-door meetings involving Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who held discussions with dissatisfied legislators including BR Patil and Raju Kage. The two leaders had flagged issues of corruption and administrative failure, causing concern for the party's image and governance credibility.

Patil has been vocal about alleged corruption in the state's housing department, while Kage criticized what he termed an "administrative collapse." Their statements have provided fodder to the opposition BJP and JD(S), who are now demanding the resignation of Siddaramaiah and Housing Minister BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan.

Leadership Change Buzz

Surjewala's visit is also seen as an attempt to quell speculation around a possible leadership change. He is expected to meet individually with some party leaders whose recent public remarks have embarrassed the high command.

Fueling the buzz further, Congress MLA HA Iqbal Hussain hinted that a leadership shift could be on the cards this year. "This is something that the high command has in mind," he stated. "When the time is right, DK Shivakumar will be given an opportunity. I'm telling you clearly, within two to three months, a decision will come."

These comments have intensified speculation, despite no official confirmation from the party's top brass.

Opposition Attacks

Sensing an opportunity, opposition leaders have mounted pressure on the Congress government, citing the party's internal discord as proof of misgovernance. BJP and JD(S) leaders have been vocal in calling for accountability and have demanded the resignation of ministers facing corruption allegations.

As the Congress attempts to contain the fallout, all eyes are now on the outcome of Surjewala's meetings, which could determine the immediate political direction of the party in Karnataka.