New Delhi/Bangalore: The ongoing political controversy surrounding the alleged sting operation in Karnataka has reportedly reached the Congress high command. Former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on Monday and held a nearly 45-minute closed-door meeting, during which he is said to have expressed serious displeasure over the developments within the party.
According to sources, Siddaramaiah briefed Rahul Gandhi about the political developments in Karnataka and raised several concerns regarding the alleged conspiracy against him. He reportedly accused certain people within the party of attempting to damage his political image despite his decision to step down from the Chief Minister’s post in accordance with the high command’s directions.,Siddaramaiah reportedly questioned the motive behind the sting operation, stating that he had already made it clear that he would not contest the next Assembly elections or remain in the race for the Chief Minister’s post. Despite this, he alleged that efforts were being made to tarnish his reputation.
He urged the Congress leadership to identify those behind the sting operation and take strict action against them. He also expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing investigation, reportedly questioning whether the actual people behind the operation and the alleged video leak had been identified.,Siddaramaiah also warned that the controversy could send a wrong message to the public and adversely affect the Congress party’s organisation in the state. He reportedly pointed to the recent Legislative Council election results, expressing concern that such internal controversies could further weaken the party.
Another major issue raised during the meeting was the alleged sidelining of his son, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, during the organisation of the Mysuru Dasara celebrations.Although Yathindra was reportedly entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the arrangements, Siddaramaiah expressed displeasure over the appointment of two ministers every day for Dasara-related activities. He also objected to the alleged omission of Yathindra’s name from official government advertisements, despite his position as the district in-charge minister.
Siddaramaiah reportedly told Rahul Gandhi that such developments had caused embarrassment and that party workers and supporters were continuously approaching him with complaints.He also expressed disappointment over the repeated controversies despite having served in public life for nearly four to five decades. According to sources, Siddaramaiah even indicated that withdrawing completely from active politics might be a better option under the circumstances.
Rahul Gandhi is said to have listened carefully to Siddaramaiah’s concerns and assured him that he would look into the matter. He reportedly advised the former Chief Minister not to take any hasty decisions.The meeting has assumed significance amid growing discussions within the Karnataka Congress over the sting operation controversy and internal party developments. However, the details of the closed-door discussion and the alleged accusations have not been officially confirmed by the Congress leadership.All eyes are now on the Congress high command and the action it may take following Siddaramaiah’s complaints.
