BELAGAVI: Amid intense speculation over a possible cabinet reshuffle and the appointment of a new KPCC chief, PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi, a strong contender for the top post, made a sudden visit to New Delhi.
His arrival, just hours after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar landed in the national capital, has raised eyebrows within the state Congress.
While Siddaramaiah denied discussing cabinet changes with the party leadership on Tuesday, sources revealed that the matter was deliberated during his meeting with the high command. They also indicated that a change in the KPCC leadership is likely in the coming weeks.
Jarkiholi, backed by prominent Ahinda leaders including Siddaramaiah, H.C. Mahadevappa, Rajanna, and G. Parameshwara as well as 15 ST community MLAs, has emerged as the frontrunner. Most party legislators from North Karnataka constituencies are also rallying behind him.
However, sources added that both Jarkiholi and another aspirant, Minister Eshwar Khandre, have insisted on retaining their cabinet positions if appointed KPCC chief.
When questioned about the high command’s discussions with the CM and DCM, Jarkiholi claimed ignorance, stating that only the two leaders could disclose details. He denied any connection between his Delhi visit and theirs, though sources suggest he held political talks with the party leadership.
Notably, the high command reportedly prefers a full-time KPCC chief unburdened by cabinet responsibilities.
Adding fuel to the speculation, Public Enterprises Minister Sharanabasappa Darshanapur stated on Tuesday that the high command held a "high-voltage" meeting with the CM and DCM, hinting at imminent ministerial changes. Speaking in Yadgir, he suggested that several portfolios could be reshuffled, though he emphasised that the final decision rests with the CM.
The cabinet reshuffle and KPCC chief appointment may take a few weeks, given the growing public discontent over the government’s failure to prevent the fatal stampede during the RCB victory celebrations.