The Karnataka Congress is preparing to establish a Political Affairs Committee to improve coordination between the state government and the party organisation, amid concerns that the proposed panel could become a parallel centre of authority.
Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara has clarified that the committee will be consultative rather than authoritative, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah retaining the final say on decisions. The panel is expected to discuss major political and policy matters and offer recommendations to the government.
Senior Leaders to Be Part of the Panel
Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president B.K. Hariprasad confirmed that the committee would be formed soon. Its proposed membership includes the chief minister, the KPCC president, former Congress Legislature Party leaders and other senior party functionaries.
Parameshwara said members would be free to express their views, but the chief minister could accept or reject their suggestions. He also indicated that the chief minister could consult the Congress high command when required.
Party Aims to Improve Coordination
The proposed committee is intended to provide a platform for discussing important government and organisational decisions collectively. Congress leaders have rejected suggestions that it would interfere with day-to-day administration.
Hariprasad said similar political affairs committees had been established in other states, including Himachal Pradesh and Jharkhand. The Karnataka panel is expected to strengthen coordination between the government and the party organisation as Congress prepares for future electoral challenges.
The committee’s formation comes amid continuing discussion about leadership roles and coordination within the Karnataka Congress. Its final structure and working arrangements will determine how it contributes to decision-making in the state.