Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced a crucial meeting scheduled for August 2 in New Delhi, where the Congress leadership will engage ministers and senior party leaders from the state to strategize on their action plan for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
This meeting holds immense significance amidst brewing discontent within the party, with reports of nearly 30 legislators expressing concerns to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and party leaders about the non-implementation of development works in their constituencies and certain ministers' functioning.
Addressing reporters, D K Shivakumar emphasized the importance of finalizing a clear strategy for candidate selection, Parliament election responsibilities, and the ticket distribution process. The Deputy Chief Minister indicated that the meeting would provide an opportunity to hold senior leaders accountable for their roles in the upcoming Parliament elections.
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The meeting is expected to see the participation of prominent Congress leaders, including AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and General Secretaries K C Vengopal and Randeep Singh Surjewala, among others.
While some leaders questioned if the meeting was prompted by dissent within the party, Shivakumar dismissed such claims, stating that certain MLAs had simply requested a CLP (Congress Legislature Party) meeting, which was convened last week.
In the backdrop of these developments, the Congress faces internal challenges, with legislators voicing concerns about difficulties in getting development work done in their constituencies and alleged lack of cooperation from certain ministers. Senior party leader B K Hariprasad's recent statement on knowing how to "make and bring down a chief minister" has also added to the political tension.
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B R Patil, a senior MLA, expressed dissatisfaction during the CLP meeting, threatening to resign citing "self-respect." He emphasized that the fight against the perceived misconduct of some ministers would continue if not addressed.
Shivakumar acknowledged Patil's concerns, describing him as a sensitive and important leader in the party. He further shared that the meeting had been called at Patil's request, indicating a willingness to address the ethical issues raised.
