Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah Denies Rift with Deputy, Calls Relationship 'Milk-Honey'
In a strong rebuttal to swirling political speculation, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has publicly dismissed rumors of a rift with his deputy, DK Shivakumar, describing their ties as a "milk-honey relationship". The statement comes amid opposition claims of surveillance and internal discord within the Congress-led state government.
Opposition Accusations and CM's Response
In a detailed post on social media platform X, Siddaramaiah accused opposition leaders of attempting to sow divisions between him and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar following the Congress party's return to power in the state. "DK Shivakumar and mine is a milk-honey relationship," he wrote, emphasizing the strength of their partnership.
The chief minister specifically targeted Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy and Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka, who had alleged that Siddaramaiah ordered phone tapping to monitor Shivakumar. Siddaramaiah dismissed these accusations as "frustrated statements from restless souls", asserting that the state Intelligence Department has always functioned under the chief minister's authority, including during previous BJP and JD(S) governments.
Allegations of Political Maneuvering
Siddaramaiah further alleged that the BJP and JD(S) are actively trying to lure Shivakumar in a bid to destabilize the Congress administration. He praised his deputy as a "staunch Congressman" and declared that no amount of political maneuvering or "daydreaming" by rivals would weaken their relationship or threaten the government's stability.
Speculation about a possible power-sharing dispute had intensified after the Congress government completed two-and-a-half years in office in November 2025. Addressing these rumors directly, Siddaramaiah affirmed that the administration would complete its full five-year term under Congress leadership, highlighting the party's internal democracy and adherence to decisions from the high command.
Broader Political Context
The chief minister also took aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing central agencies of being misused against opposition leaders. He called on the opposition to play a constructive role, reminding them that the people of Karnataka had given Congress a clear mandate to govern for five years.
This public display of unity comes at a critical juncture for the state government, as it seeks to maintain cohesion amid external pressures and internal challenges. Siddaramaiah's forceful rejection of rift rumors underscores his commitment to presenting a united front with his deputy, even as political observers continue to watch for signs of tension.
The "milk-honey" analogy, evoking imagery of sweetness and nourishment, serves as a powerful metaphor for the chief minister's vision of his partnership with Shivakumar—one he insists remains untainted by the "sourness" that opposition parties are allegedly trying to inject into their relationship.
