'Wanted to be K'taka CM, but I accept party's decision': Parameshwara
Bengaluru, June 3
Senior Congress leader G. Parameshwara, who will be sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister in the D.K. Shivakumar-led government, on Wednesday acknowledged that he had aspired to become CM but said he fully accepted the party high command's decision and was happy to serve in his new role.
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru ahead of the swearing-in ceremony, Parameshwara said he would abide by the party's decision as a disciplined worker of Congress.
"It is true that I wanted to become the Chief Minister. However, as disciplined soldiers of the party, we have to abide by the decision of the high command. This is the party's decision, and I have always maintained that I will follow whatever decision the high command takes," he said.
Parameshwara said he viewed the post of Deputy Chief Minister as an opportunity to continue serving the people of Karnataka.
"The party has made me the Deputy Chief Minister, and I have accepted it. I believe this is another opportunity to serve the people. There is no question of considering it a demotion. Any position is acceptable if it provides an opportunity to serve the people. In that spirit, I will work as the Deputy Chief Minister," he said.
Rejecting suggestions that any particular community had been overlooked in the leadership selection process, Parameshwara said Congress gives opportunities to different leaders from time to time.
"There is no question of neglecting any community. Such a situation does not arise. The party provides opportunities for different leaders to lead. This time, it has given an opportunity to D.K. Shivakumar, and I congratulate and thank him," he said.
On the allocation of portfolios, Parameshwara said the decision rests with the party leadership and the Chief Minister.
"I do not know which portfolio I will be assigned. If I am given the Home Ministry, I will continue in that role. If I am assigned any other department, I will serve there as well," he said.
Parameshwara also expressed gratitude to the Congress leadership for reposing faith in him.
"I would like to convey my sincere thanks to AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala, K.C. Venugopal and the entire party leadership. At this stage of my political career, they have selected me as Deputy Chief Minister. I am grateful for the trust and confidence they have placed in me," he said.
He said the new role would enable him to work for the people in accordance with the Congress party's ideology and manifesto.
"This is another opportunity to serve the people of Karnataka in line with the party's ideology and commitments. I would also like to thank Chief Minister-designate D.K. Shivakumar and outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who were part of the decision-making process," he added.
Parameshwara also congratulated Siddaramaiah on his appointment as a member of the Congress Working Committee (CWC).
— IANS
Reader Comments
While I respect his discipline, isn't it problematic that the high command decides everything? The people of Karnataka should have more say in who leads. Still, Parameshwara's maturity is commendable. Hope he gets Home or a key portfolio. 🤔
Amazing grace! In any political party, it's rare to see a senior leader openly admit 'I wanted to be CM' and then accept the decision. This is the Congress culture - respecting the collective. Good example for younger politicians. 🙏
Why is it always about the 'high command'? This shows Congress still functions like a family-run party, not a democratic institution. Parameshwara might be a good deputy, but the process needs fixing. Still, at least he's loyal.
Parameshwara ji is a seasoned politician. But why does Karnataka always have deputy CM drama? First Siddaramaiah-DKS, now Parameshwara-DKS. Hope all these leaders work together for development, not just power-sharing. 🤞
True leader! But the real test is performance - will this new team deliver on the Congress manifesto promises? Parameshwara is right, it's about serving people. Let's see action, not just words. Good luck to the new government! 💪
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.