Karnataka CM Race: G Parameshwara's Supporters Ask Congress To Make Him New CM

Amid intense lobbying between Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar for the post of chief minister in Karnataka, now G Parameshwara, a senior Congress leader, stated on Tuesday that he would readily accept the responsibility if asked by the party high command to lead the government.

The former state Congress President highlighted his service to the party and emphasized that he does not feel the need to engage in lobbying for the position. "I am prepared to assume the responsibility if the high command decides and requests me to run the government," stated the former Deputy Chief Minister to reporters in Bengaluru.

"I have faith in the party high command. I have certain principles. I could also gather around 50 legislators and make demands, but for me, party discipline is important. If people like us don't adhere to the rules, there will be a lack of discipline in the party. I have stated that I am willing to take up the responsibility if the high command entrusts it to me. I haven't said I won't," he clarified.

"They (the high command) are also aware of my contributions to the party. They know that I have worked for the party for eight years as the KPCC President and helped bring it to power in 2013. I have also served as the Deputy Chief Minister. They are well aware of everything, and there is no need for us to reiterate it. Therefore, I believe there is no need for me to seek or lobby for the position. I am keeping quiet. That does not mean I am incapable. I am capable, and if given the opportunity, I will perform the job," he added.

The power struggle for leadership of the government in Karnataka is currently being contested between State Congress President D K Shivakumar and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Following the Congress's victory in the May 10 elections, securing 135 seats in the 224-member Karnataka assembly, both leaders are in Delhi to discuss government formation and the next Chief Minister with the central leadership of the party.

The Congress's three central observers, who consulted with newly elected party MLAs to ascertain their choice for Chief Minister, briefed party chief M Mallikarjun Kharge and submitted their report on Monday.

Parameshwara, a Dalit, previously served as Deputy Chief Minister during the Congress-Janata Dal Secular coalition government led by H D Kumaraswamy. He holds the distinction of being the longest-serving KPCC chief, having served for eight years, and possesses a PhD in plant physiology from the Waite Agriculture Research Centre at the University of Adelaide.

After losing the 2013 assembly polls while serving as KPCC President, Parameshwara became an MLC and a minister in the Siddaramaiah government. He hails from Koratagere in Tumakuru district.