Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Feb 17: Public Works Department minister Satish Jarkiholi made it clear that no one can prevent anyone from attending the Maha Kumbh Mela once they decide to go. "People are free to go, and everyone is attending. There’s no confusion about this. Devotees will go based on their faith," Jarkiholi said in a press conference in Manipal, addressing questions about D K Shivakumar’s participation in the event.
On the issue of Shivakumar’s involvement, Jarkiholi emphasised that it was a personal matter for the leaders involved. "Kharge and others have their own perspectives. A train has already departed from Mangaluru, and our Congress workers are on their way to the Maha Kumbh Mela. I will go once the rush eases down. Right now, there is too much rush," he explained.
Jarkiholi pointed out that around 50% of those traveling from Mangaluru are Congress supporters. "This is not a practice confined to one party. It is a matter of individual devotion, and we do not intend to prevent anyone from following their religious beliefs," he said.
When asked about the recent remarks made by D K Shivakumar regarding CM Siddaramaiah, Jarkiholi described the issue as an internal matter within the party. "We will discuss this internally and resolve any problems if they exist. As of now, we do not feel there is any problem. I will speak directly to them to understand what the issue is," he remarked.
On the tensions between D K Shivakumar and Rajanna, Jarkiholi responded, "There is no anger between Rajanna and me. Things are fine as they are. I cannot comment on the statements made by D K Shivakumar and Rajanna. They must answer for their own comments."
Jarkiholi also emphasised that there are no immediate plans for a meeting or conference on the matter. "If such a meeting is planned in the future, we will inform the media," he added.
Regarding party leadership, Jarkiholi clarified the stance on Siddaramaiah’s tenure as Chief Minister, saying, "We are in direct contact with our coastal workers, and the matter of becoming the CM is not something we are currently discussing. We are not the ones deciding who will become the CM. We, too, are spectators in this process."
Former MLA Byndoor Gopal Poojary was present during the press meet.