H.K. Patil, a senior Congress leader and former minister, has publicly stated that he is not seeking a cabinet position based on caste considerations. He emphasizes that his past achievements and positions within the party and government are the result of merit, not caste quotas.
Patil directly addresses claims made by Umesh Patil, the president of the All-India Veerashaiva Mahasabha Youth Wing, who questioned Patil's belonging to the Veerashaiva Lingayat community and his eligibility for a cabinet post.
In a letter to the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president, G. Parameshwara, Patil reiterates his commitment to merit-based advancement within the party and government. He highlights that he has consistently received support from party leaders based on his accomplishments and not due to his caste. Patil contrasts his approach with that of others who engage in caste-based politics for positions.