3 weeks ago

Karnataka Congress crisis: Shivakumar, Surjewala pacify MLAs as protests persist

Karnataka Congress crisis: Shivakumar, Surjewala pacify MLAs as protests persist
Congress scrambles to contain Karnataka Cabinet revolt as more MLAs dig in · indianexpress.com

In the Indian state of Karnataka, a big political party called the Congress had to choose some people to be ministers, and many of its members were sad because they were not chosen.

The Chief Minister, D.K. Shivakumar, and another leader, Randeep Singh Surjewala, went to visit the unhappy members at their homes and talked for a long time to calm them down.

One member, M. Krishnappa, and his son Priya Krishna both hoped that at least one of them would become a minister, but neither was picked.

Another member, Yashavantharayagouda Patil, said he would quit, but he changed his mind after leaders promised to help his hometown.

He said that the love of the people is more valuable than a minister job.

Even after the leaders talked to everyone, some supporters were still unhappy and held protests in different towns, blocking roads and burning tyres.

A Congress leader named B.K. Hariprasad also argued with the other big party, the BJP, and asked about old political tricks.

The other party released a recording saying some ministers were made in exchange for money, but the Congress said the recording was fake.

In the end, the leaders worked hard to keep their party together, but some members were still upset.

Key facts

Event
Karnataka Cabinet expansion sparks dissent within Congress
State
Karnataka
Chief Minister
D.K. Shivakumar
AICC Karnataka in-charge
Randeep Singh Surjewala
KPCC President
B.K. Hariprasad
MLA who withdrew resignation
Yashavantharayagouda Patil (Indi, Vijayapura)
Ministers sworn in
August 3
Districts with protests
Kolar (Bangarpet), Koppal, Haveri, Chikkaballapur, Kalaburagi

Quotes

Yashavanthrayagouda Patil

Vijayapura MLA who earlier resigned over cabinet exclusion

“"I never approached anyone seeking a ministerial post. Leaders from my own district became a roadblock to my inclusion in the Cabinet. Siddaramaiah himself has spoken about this, but I do not know whether he is stating the truth or merely saying it for the sake of it."”
thehansindia.com
“"I have withdrawn my resignation keeping in mind the sentiments of the people. The pressure from my supporters and well‑wishers convinced me that the love of the people is more valuable than a ministerial post. I will remain in the Congress till my last breath."”
thehansindia.com

Sources

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