H.C. Mahadevappa may know about change of Chief Minister ‘because he is high command’, says D.K. Shivakumar

As speculation continues about a possible change of leadership in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday said that his Cabinet colleague H.C. Mahadevappa has been claiming the Chief Minister’s post should go to a Dalit candidate, “as he is the party high command” and may have some information on the change of Chief Minister.

Speaking to reporters, Mr. Shivakumar said sarcastically: “I saw Dr. Mahadevappa’s statement. He is our high command, and he may have some information. I don’t have any information on this.”

Not summoned

Asked if the high command had summoned him and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to Delhi, he said: “I have not got any calls. I have to visit Delhi for some work related to my department. The Centre is releasing ₹1 lakh crore for urban development, but they are saying it is not for bigger cities. I will discuss it with the Urban Development Minister and ask them to prepare a proposal for Tier II and III cities in the State.”

To a query on his silence on statements issued by Ministers, Mr. Shivakumar said: “It is the Chief Minister who has to regulate Ministers and MLAs. I am doing the job of communicating it to the party.”

On former Minister K.N. Rajanna’s statement that Home Minister G. Parameshwara needs to be rewarded for his work, he said Mr. Rajanna “is a big man.”

About Jarkiholi

Asked if Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi had a discussion with him, the KPCC chief said: “Mr. Jarkiholi is a senior leader, and he has been working as a party working president. We are like-minded people and discuss party affairs every week.”

To a query related to a letter to the high command seeking that at least five new positions must be given to newcomers, he said: “I read about it in the media, I haven’t received the letter yet. The party needs new blood and new thinking. I support fresh blood.”

On speculations of induction of new members during the Cabinet expansion under his leadership, Mr. Shivakumar said: “I have not said I am going to form my Cabinet.”