DK Shivakumar Dismisses Karnataka Leadership Change Speculation
In a move to quell persistent rumors about a potential leadership shift in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar clarified on Thursday that discussions regarding the chief ministerial position were notably absent during his recent interactions with the Congress high command in New Delhi. Addressing the media in the national capital, Shivakumar emphasized that the party's leadership would make decisions at an appropriate time, with the broader organizational vision and goals taking precedence.
Focus on Party Vision Over Personal Ambitions
"We are not discussing anything on this," Shivakumar asserted. "The party has a vision and a goal. Party success is important. Senior leaders are there and they will take a call whenever they find it suitable in the interest of Karnataka and the country." He underscored that internal political deliberations are not intended for public consumption, declining to reveal specifics about his meetings at the All India Congress Committee headquarters.
Shivakumar elaborated, "I don’t think I need to disclose whom I met inside 10 Janpath. We are not ready to discuss politics on the streets. We met our high command and discussed what needed to be discussed." He added that the visit was purposeful, aimed at addressing political matters rather than being a casual outing, stating it was "to discuss political things, not just to breathe air."
Persistent Speculation and Internal Dynamics
Speculation surrounding a power-sharing arrangement in Karnataka has intensified since the Congress government surpassed the halfway mark of its five-year term in November last year. This debate has been fueled by statements from various party legislators, including Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain, who earlier this week claimed that 80–90 MLAs had expressed support for Shivakumar to the high command. Hussain urged party colleagues to maintain discipline and avoid public remarks that could embarrass the leadership.
When questioned about these claims in Delhi, Shivakumar responded by asserting his broad support base, stating he had the backing of all 136 MLAs. This highlights the ongoing internal dynamics within the Congress party as it navigates leadership questions in the state.
Opposition Criticism and Broader Implications
Meanwhile, the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has capitalized on the internal discord. BJP leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, R Ashok, commented that the recurring discussions over the chief minister's post reflect deeper struggles within the Congress party. "For the last two years, the same questions keep coming up. We heard about a 50-50 government, 2.5 years have gone by and that date is also past. This is a fight between the old and the new Congress," he remarked.
This situation underscores the political tensions in Karnataka, with the Congress grappling to maintain unity and focus on governance amid leadership speculation. As the party continues its deliberations behind closed doors, all eyes remain on how it will address these internal challenges while preparing for future electoral battles.
