Surjewala meets Karnataka Congress MLAs amid 'disgruntlement', leadership change buzz

Bengaluru: AICC General Secretary in-charge of Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, began meetings with party legislators here amid signs of "disgruntlement" and speculation about a leadership change within the ruling party.

According to party sources, as part of his three-day visit, Surjewala is likely to hold mostly one-on-one meetings with legislators. On Monday, he was scheduled to meet MLAs from the Chikkaballapura and Kolar regions.

He is expected to hear their grievances and collect feedback on the government’s functioning, sources said.

The meetings have gained significance as some MLAs have recently expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s performance.

They also come at a time when speculation over a leadership change has resurfaced following Cooperation Minister K N Rajanna’s remarks hinting at "revolutionary" political developments after September.

There is also talk within party circles of a possible cabinet reshuffle and a change of state Congress president, a post currently held by Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar.

Meanwhile, speaking to reporters, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge said Surjewala has come. Based on his report and what feedback he gathers, we will decide what steps to take.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, speaking to reporters in Mysuru, said, "He is the AICC General Secretary in-charge. He will seek the opinion of MLAs, hear their concerns, and assess what needs to be done to strengthen the organisation. He will do his job." Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara said Surjewala regularly visits Karnataka to review party matters, not just government affairs.

"He will also review political aspects, party programmes, and if there are disturbances within the party or government, he will guide us as the in-charge General Secretary," he said.

Surjewala may also address concerns raised by certain MLAs in recent weeks, he added.

Aland MLA B R Patil had alleged bribery in public housing allotments under the Housing Department, while Kagwad MLA Raju Kage had hinted at resigning, citing delays in developmental works and fund release, and alleging that the administration had "completely collapsed."

Their remarks have embarrassed the ruling Congress, with opposition BJP and JD(S) accusing the government of "rampant corruption" and demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Housing Minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan.

Siddaramaiah met both Patil and Kage last week after returning from New Delhi and reportedly assured them that their concerns would be addressed. He is also said to have urged them "not to speak publicly against the government".

Meanwhile, pressure is mounting for a cabinet reshuffle as the Congress government completes two years in office.