Siddaramaiah’s Son Backs Satish Jarkiholi as Karnataka CM Successor

National News: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s son, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, has suggested minister Satish Jarkiholi as a potential successor to his father. This has added to the speculation around the leadership of the Congress government in the state, challenging the idea that Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar is the only contender.

At an event in Chikkodi, Belagavi district, on October 21, Yathindra said that 63-year-old Jarkiholi should be guided by 77-year-old Siddaramaiah, who is in the final stage of his political career. Speaking to reporters later, Yathindra clarified that there are no discussions about a leadership change at the moment.

Shivakumar’s Response

DK Shivakumar, 63, did not comment directly on Yathindra’s remarks. However, he reaffirmed that he will continue to work with Siddaramaiah as directed by the party, according to PTI reports. Currently, Satish Jarkiholi serves as the Public Works Minister in Karnataka. Yathindra praised him, saying, “He is the only leader who has the qualities we need now — rational and progressive leadership.”

Upcoming Halfway Mark

The Congress government will reach the halfway point of its five-year term in November. Political circles have nicknamed a potential leadership change at that time as the “November revolution.” Yathindra had also stressed earlier that his father would serve the full term until 2028. Speaking at the Belagavi event in Kannada, he said, “My father is in the final phase of his political career. At such a time, we need a leader who can guide those with rational and progressive ideas. Mr. Jarkiholi can take that responsibility and set an example for young leaders in the Congress party. Finding a leader with such principles is rare. I hope he continues his good work.” Jarkiholi was present at the event.

New Contender Emerges

This indicates that Jarkiholi, who is close to Siddaramaiah, is being positioned as a possible successor. Shivakumar, meanwhile, has said he is not rushing for the top post, and Siddaramaiah has repeatedly denied plans to resign. Speculation about Shivakumar’s promotion gained attention after Congress MP LR Shivarame Gowda commented on the matter, saying, “Shivakumar may become chief minister eventually, but the final call is with the party high command. They know how to balance leadership roles, and hard work is rewarded in the end.” Siddaramaiah has assured the public that he will serve a full five-year term. Yathindra also clarified in Tumkur, “Talks of a CM change after the Bihar elections are false. Any decision will be taken by the party high command and MLAs. I am confident Siddaramaiah will complete five years.”