Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has backed Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge’s potential return to state politics, stating there’s “nothing wrong” with the idea. The remarks come after Kharge, a prominent Dalit leader from Karnataka, recalled missing the Chief Minister’s post to S M Krishna in 1999, reigniting discussions about a Dalit CM within the Congress party.

Speaking to reporters, Parameshwara, a Scheduled Caste leader himself, emphasized Kharge’s seniority and 50 years of political experience, urging against misinterpreting his statements. “As AICC president, he decides who becomes CM. If he wants to return to state politics, it shouldn’t be misconstrued,” he said. This follows speculations of a leadership change in Karnataka, fueled by rumored power-sharing talks between CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D K Shivakumar.

Kharge’s comments at a Vijayapura event, where he reflected on his five-year struggle as CLP leader only to see Krishna appointed CM, have stirred debate. He stressed resilience over greed, noting his rise to AICC president. Minister H C Mahadevappa echoed support, citing Kharge’s qualifications for any constitutional post and naming past Dalit CMs in other states.

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However, Kharge’s son, IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge, clarified that his father was merely recounting his political journey, not signaling regret or ambition. “He’s earned respect and will decide his future with the blessings of Congress leaders like Rahul, Sonia, and Priyanka Gandhi,” Priyank said, urging a holistic view of Kharge’s speech.

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