In a significant development aimed at quelling internal discord, Congress MLA from Sagar, Gopalkrishna Belur, declared on Wednesday that the controversy surrounding power-sharing within the Karnataka unit has been effectively resolved. The three-time legislator asserted that peace has been restored following clarifications from the party's senior leadership.
MLA Asserts Internal Peace, Downplays Delhi Visits
Addressing reporters in Shivamogga, Gopalkrishna Belur stated that the recent unrest, which he referred to as the 'Nov revolution', has been settled amicably. "There is no revolution now, only peace," he emphasized. Belur credited the party's high command for stepping in and providing clarity, which has resulted in contentment among the rank and file workers. He downplayed the recent visit of Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to Delhi, indicating it was for routine purposes. "The high command has asked him to come to Delhi for a different reason. It's normal for the CM and DCM to visit Delhi," he explained, adding that some other MLAs were also in the national capital for various individual reasons.
Confidence in Unity Amidst Speculation
The Congress leader addressed speculation about potential defections, particularly concerning former minister and staunch Siddaramaiah loyalist, KN Rajanna. While acknowledging that Rajanna might consider leaving the party, Belur expressed strong confidence that no other Congress legislator would switch allegiance to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He issued a direct challenge to the opposition regarding their threat to move a no-confidence motion against the state government. "If they have the guts, they can do it. I can assure that no Congress legislator will cross-vote," Belur declared, showcasing his faith in the party's discipline and unity.
Political Strategy and Upcoming Session
Belur framed the resolution of the internal matter as a strategic victory, suggesting that the opposition, which had hoped to capitalize on the dissent, is now finding itself cornered. He highlighted that the Congress leadership managed to arrive at a peaceful decision without requiring intervention from national leaders, a move that he believes has neutralized a potent weapon for the BJP. "Otherwise, the opposition would have raised it during the Belagavi session," he noted. With the winter session in Belagavi on the horizon, the MLA expressed confidence that the Congress party would face the proceedings smoothly, now that the internal fissures have been addressed. He concluded by reiterating that the BJP and other opponents are just that—political rivals—and the Congress is prepared to face them with a united front.
