Mon Jun 30 12:07:20 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article based on the information:
**Summary:**
Amidst internal rumblings within the Karnataka Congress party about a potential change in Chief Minister, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge stated that the decision rests with the party high command. This statement comes as some Congress leaders have publicly discussed the possibility of replacing current CM Siddaramaiah in October. The situation is further complicated by a rumored power-sharing agreement between Siddaramaiah and his deputy, D.K. Shivakumar. The Congress’ General Secretary in-charge of Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, is in Bengaluru meeting with legislators, adding fuel to the speculation. The opposition BJP, through R. Ashoka, is criticizing Kharge’s statement, claiming he lacks real authority and that the Gandhi family remains the true power behind the Congress throne.
**News Article:**
**Karnataka Congress Leadership Uncertainty: Kharge Defers to ‘High Command’ Amid CM Change Speculation**
**Bengaluru, June 30, 2025** – Internal discord within the Karnataka Congress party has intensified as rumors circulate regarding a potential change in Chief Minister. AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge addressed the speculation today, stating that the decision on any leadership change lies solely with the party high command.
Kharge’s comments come amidst open discussions among some Karnataka Congress leaders about the possibility of replacing current Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, potentially as early as October. Speculation has also centered on a possible power-sharing agreement between Siddaramaiah and his deputy, D.K. Shivakumar, which the party has neither confirmed nor denied.
“This is left to the high command, and the high command has got the power to take further action. But unnecessarily, one should not create a problem,” Kharge told reporters in Bengaluru.
Adding to the intrigue, Congress General Secretary in-charge of Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, is currently in Bengaluru meeting with party legislators, fueling speculation about internal discontent and a potential leadership shake-up. Kharge indicated that the high command will consider Surjewala’s report and feedback before making any decisions.
The opposition BJP seized upon Kharge’s statement, questioning his authority within the Congress party. R. Ashoka, Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, launched a scathing critique on social media platform ‘X’, calling Kharge an “accidental AICC president” who lacks real power.
“Dear Kharge Ji, if you are not the high command, then who is? Rahul Gandhi? Sonia Gandhi? Priyanka Gandhi or is it an invisible committee of one surname? In @INCIndia, the President is just there for appearances, while decisions are taken behind closed doors at 10 Janpath,” Ashoka posted. He further accused the Gandhi family of maintaining control behind the scenes.
The Karnataka Congress party has yet to respond to Ashoka’s accusations. The uncertainty surrounding the Chief Minister’s position is likely to continue until the party high command makes its decision, leaving the state in a state of political anticipation.
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