Satish Jarkiholi rejected claims that Congress won power because of a few leaders, stressing collective effort while addressing leadership tensions in Karnataka politics
Belagavi
Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi openly voiced his disagreement with the notion that Congress came to power in Karnataka solely because of a few leaders. Without naming Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, he delivered a sharp indirect counter, stating that such claims are unacceptable.
Speaking to the media in Belagavi, Jarkiholi said that Congress’s victory was the result of the support of 1.25 crore voters. “We became MLAs and ministers because of the people. One should maintain limits. Claiming that everything happened because of one person is completely wrong,” he said. He added that many people worked both directly and indirectly to bring Congress to power. Drawing a comparison, he said that when Tenzing Norgay climbed Mt. Everest in 1960, global newspapers highlighted only his name, ignoring the 14 others who climbed with him. “This situation is similar,” he remarked.
He stressed that every leader, including first-time MLAs, worked tirelessly, and everyone deserves equal recognition. While leaders naturally stake their claims, he said, credit cannot be monopolised by a handful. He also pointed out that former KPCC president Dr. G. Parameshwara led the party for seven years and contributed significantly.
Commenting on Parameshwara expressing interest in the Chief Minister’s post, Jarkiholi said there was nothing wrong in that. “We too are aspirants. SC, ST and minority communities are key voters for Congress, and they must be represented,” he added.
Responding to questions on the alleged 2.5-year power-sharing formula, he said discussions, if any, happened in Delhi, not Bengaluru. He expressed confidence that the High Command would soon settle the leadership issues, as AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge had already held meetings.
When asked about his own CM aspirations, Jarkiholi declined to comment.
