V. Somanna says BJP high command will decide on Karnataka state president

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, May 23, 2026: Union Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna on Friday said that the BJP leadership would take an appropriate decision regarding the appointment of the party’s new Karnataka state president, adding that “the party is bigger than an individual, and the nation is bigger than the party.”

Responding to questions from reporters in Mangaluru on speculation over a possible change in the BJP state leadership, Somanna said he had no information about any change in the post of state president.

“I have been in politics for 48 years. The party sought suggestions to bring certain improvements, and based on my experience, I have offered my suggestions. All decisions will be taken by the senior leaders of the party,” he said.

On reports regarding the possible re-election of former Prime Minister H. D. Deve Gowda to the Rajya Sabha, Somanna said he had no information on the matter.

“Deve Gowda is part of the NDA alliance. The Prime Minister and the party high command will take an appropriate decision. I am not a person big enough to comment on what position should be given to him. Nobody has discussed the matter with me,” he said.

Strongly criticising the Karnataka government’s decision to withdraw 55 criminal cases, Somanna questioned whether the government was functioning effectively.

“The state government has committed an unpardonable mistake. This is a puppet government and nobody knows how long it will last. I have served as an MLA seven times and as a minister, and I have closely observed the functioning of governments. This is an indifferent government lacking willpower,” he alleged.

He accused the government of misleading people through diversionary tactics and said the public would soon give a fitting reply.

“The entire world knows about the wrong systems they are encouraging. There will be consequences for these actions,” he said.

Reacting to the NEET question paper leak issue, Somanna said the incident should not have happened and assured that strict action would be taken against those responsible.

“The Central government will ensure severe punishment for the guilty after identifying those behind the leak,” he said.

On speculation about his possible return to active state politics, Somanna said he was currently focused on his responsibilities as a Union Minister.

“The Prime Minister has entrusted me with ministerial responsibility. I am travelling across the country and carrying out my work. Future decisions will be taken by the party high command,” he said.

Taking a swipe at the newly floated “Cockroach Janata Party”, Somanna remarked that many such parties had emerged and disappeared in the country.

“These parties mushroom and vanish. Efforts are being made to convert lies into truth,” he said.

Speaking on railway development, Somanna said discussions were underway to create a separate railway division for Mangaluru.

“Mangaluru is presently divided among three railway divisions. A separate division would be more beneficial,” he said.

He also said that the 55-km railway stretch between Subrahmanya and Sakleshpur had been completed and electrification work finished.

“In another month, the Mangaluru-Bengaluru Vande Bharat train service will begin operations,” he added.