In a clear message of support to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has been facing several controversies, AICC general secretary and Karnataka in-charge Digvijaya Singh on Sunday categorically said the party is behind the Chief Minister and any decision on Cabinet reshuffle will be taken only by Mr. Siddaramaiah.
The statements were a clear indication that the party high command did not support the demand by a section of the State Congress leadership for creation of a Deputy Chief Minister’s post.
To a question on the appointment of a Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Singh said, “It’s absolutely the right of the Chief Minister. The AICC will not interfere in such matters.” Mr. Singh, who held discussions with Ministers, legislators, and district Congress presidents in the last three days, said the AICC would not interfere in the Cabinet reshuffle. “Mr. Siddaramaiah is free to do that (Cabinet reshuffle).”