Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress president DK Shivakumar has firmly dismissed suggestions that he is attempting to influence senior party figures, following his meeting with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's close confidant, KN Rajanna. The meeting, which took place on Sunday, has sparked discussions about internal dynamics within the ruling party in the state.
A Simple Courtesy Meeting, Says Shivakumar
Addressing the media on the sidelines of a Pulse Polio programme, Shivakumar clarified the nature of his interaction with Rajanna, who is a Congress MLA and former minister. He described the meeting as nothing more than a "courtesy call." Shivakumar explained that he could not speak properly with Rajanna the previous day and hence made time to meet him.
Emphasizing their long-standing association, Shivakumar stated, "Rajanna is an MLA of our party and a former minister. He is close to me as well." He reminded reporters of his past role in appointing Rajanna as the president of the Apex Bank during SM Krishna's tenure as chief minister, inviting verification of this fact.
Rajanna Reiterates Support for Siddaramaiah
Echoing the deputy chief minister's sentiment, KN Rajanna also downplayed the significance of the meeting. He affirmed to the media that Shivakumar, in his capacity as the state Congress chief, is free to converse with anyone. Rajanna made it clear that his position on the leadership remains unchanged. "There is no change in my stance that Siddaramaiah should continue as CM," he asserted.
He further added that the final decision rests with the party's high command, a point he noted that even Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has acknowledged. This statement aims to quell speculation about any shift in allegiance or brewing discontent.
Letter to High Command Highlights Perceived Confusion
Meanwhile, a purported letter dated December 20, written by All India Congress Committee (AICC) member VR Sudarshan to party president Mallikarjun Kharge, has surfaced. The letter seeks Kharge's intervention to resolve what Sudarshan describes as a state of confusion within the Karnataka unit of the party.
The letter claims that this perceived confusion is adversely affecting both the administration of the Karnataka government and the public image of the Congress party. This internal communication adds another layer to the ongoing narrative about the party's cohesion.
Shivakumar Blames BJP and Media
Reacting to the letter, Deputy CM Shivakumar outright rejected the notion of any internal disorder. He attributed the entire narrative to political opponents and sensationalism. "There is no confusion in the party. This is a creation of BJP and the media," Shivakumar stated. He accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of attempting to divert attention from its own internal issues by amplifying non-existent problems within the Congress.
Shivakumar also outlined his immediate plans, revealing his travel to Delhi for a meeting concerning river-linking projects. He stated his intention to demand a 50% central grant for Metro and other crucial infrastructure projects in Bengaluru. Additionally, he plans to hold discussions with the Union Environment Minister regarding the Mahadayi and Yettinahole projects and mentioned that a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Mekedatu project is being prepared.
The developments underscore the delicate balance of power within the Karnataka Congress, where public displays of unity are often punctuated by underlying political maneuvers. While both factions publicly endorse the high command's authority, meetings and letters continue to fuel political discourse in the state.
