Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao addressing reporters in Kalaburagi on February 8 | Photo credit: ARUN KULKARNI
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said there were no differences in the Congress and that all leaders, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, were working in unison under the leadership of the party high command.
Addressing reporters in Kalaburagi town on February 8, Mr. Rao said that any decision to change leadership rests solely with the high command and there is no confusion on the issue.
Responding to Yathindra Siddaramaiah, MLC’s remarks about Mr. Siddaramaiah completing a full five-year term as Chief Minister, Mr. Rao said he was not aware of a specific statement but reiterated that the party had no internal disagreement and that leadership decisions would be taken jointly by the high command with the approval of the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister.
Regarding metro fare revision, the minister said that the chief minister has written to the Union government seeking intervention and clarified that the regulation of fares does not come under the purview of the state but is the responsibility of the Centre.
He accused BJP leaders, including MP Tejasvi Surya, of making misleading statements to incriminate the state government. The Center itself has stopped the fare revision, he said, adding that BJP MPs are putting pressure on the Center to increase metro fares while publicly criticizing the state government.
Referring to the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) elections, Mr. Rao said the state government has decided to use ballot papers. He criticized the State Election Commission for not issuing a clear opinion and creating unnecessary confusion.
The minister said several countries around the world continue to use ballot papers and the decision was taken to ensure transparency and public confidence in the electoral process.
Asked whether Mr Shivakumar had the political luck to become Chief Minister, Mr Rao refused to speculate, saying he was not in a position to comment on such matters and that the decision of the leadership rested with the party.
Published – 08 Feb 2026 20:33 IST
