Karnataka Congress Dinner Sparks Speculation Over Chief Minister Change
In a move that has ignited fresh political chatter, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress president DK Shivakumar announced he will host a dinner for Congress legislators on March 10. This event marks the completion of his six-year tenure as the party's state chief and comes at a time when rumors about a potential change in the chief minister's office are circulating within the state unit.
Political Significance of the Gathering
At a press conference on Tuesday, Shivakumar confirmed that the dinner will be held at a prominent hotel in Bengaluru. Additionally, a separate dinner meeting is planned for opposition MLAs. The timing of this gathering is particularly noteworthy as discussions regarding a possible leadership shift have resurfaced among Congress members in Karnataka.
It remains unclear exactly who will receive invitations to the dinner. Reports indicate that factions aligned with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and those supporting Shivakumar have been conducting separate meetings. Some party officials have reportedly urged the Congress high command to intervene and quell the ongoing speculation.
When asked about his attendance, Virajpet MLA and Siddaramaiah's legal adviser AS Ponnanna remarked, "I finish my dinner by 6pm. Besides, I am sure, DK Shivakumar will not invite me." This comment highlights the underlying tensions within the party.
Shivakumar's Firm Stance on Water Resources
Beyond the political maneuvering, Shivakumar, who also holds the water resources portfolio, addressed critical issues concerning the Upper Krishna project. He asserted that Karnataka would vigorously defend its position before the central government while aiming to avoid protracted legal battles.
Shivakumar accused the Andhra Pradesh government of obstructing Karnataka's efforts to increase the height of the Almatti dam. "I request the Centre to immediately intervene and act in accordance with earlier orders," he stated. He explained that Andhra Pradesh has opposed granting permission to raise the dam's height from 519 meters to 524.2 meters and has prevented the issuance of a necessary gazette notification.
He appealed to both Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra to refrain from interfering in the matter. Referring to objections raised by Andhra Pradesh over Karnataka's plan to acquire 1.3 lakh acres for the project, Shivakumar emphasized, "A clear judgment was delivered on December 31, 2010, permitting Karnataka to construct the dam up to 524.2 metres. It is our water, it is our right, and it is our land."
Project Details and Future Steps
Shivakumar noted that two meetings convened by the Jal Shakti minister were postponed due to objections from neighboring states. The Karnataka state cabinet approved land acquisition for the third phase of the project last year, with compensation ranging between Rs 35 lakh and Rs 40 lakh per acre. The total estimated cost of the project is Rs 70,000 crore.
Looking ahead, Shivakumar said Karnataka plans to present the facts to the central government and may lead an all-party delegation to New Delhi in the near future to resolve the dispute amicably.
