Congress to Lead 2028 Karnataka Elections with Siddaramaiah at Helm

The Congress party will enter the 2028 Karnataka Assembly elections under the leadership of former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, senior Congress leader and minister Satish Jarkiholi announced on Monday in Belagavi. Speaking at the Zilla Panchayat, Jarkiholi firmly dismissed any speculation about sidelining Siddaramaiah, stating, “There is no question of ignoring former CM Siddaramaiah. It is clear that we will face the next elections under his leadership.”

AHINDA Focus Takes Priority

Responding to queries about leadership changes within the AHINDA organisation—a coalition representing minorities, backward classes, and Dalits—Jarkiholi emphasized that strengthening and expanding the group’s base is the immediate priority. “If there are changes, they will be known from time to time. There is no need to highlight such issues now. All of us need to focus on organising the AHINDA communities now,” he said. The party high command, he added, would make decisions regarding cabinet expansion at the appropriate time.

Farmers and Development Concerns Addressed

Jarkiholi also addressed local concerns, including farmers’ demands for higher milk procurement prices. He assured that the relevant minister and department would take suitable action on the matter. On the issue of rainfall and sowing, he noted that while sowing activities were nearly complete and rainfall was expected, the government is prepared to conduct joint surveys and provide compensation if rains are delayed. “There is currently no shortage of drinking water for people and livestock in the district,” he added.

Call for Accountability in Ayodhya Temple Fund Case

The minister also urged the union government to seriously investigate allegations of fund diversion from the Ayodhya Ram temple. He highlighted Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s strict instructions to officials to prevent such incidents in Karnataka. “Donation received from devotees should be used for the development works of those temples, and we will work towards that,” he stated.

This announcement solidifies Siddaramaiah’s role as the Congress party’s central figure in Karnataka’s political landscape, reaffirming his leadership ahead of the 2028 elections. The focus on AHINDA communities and addressing farmers’ concerns signals the party’s strategy to consolidate support across diverse voter bases.

Source: The Hindu