Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress chief D K Shivakumar on Thursday stated he would follow the party high command's directive to serve as a senior observer for the crucial upcoming Assam Assembly elections. He emphasized that party discipline left him with no alternative but to accept the assignment.
Congress Leadership's Strategic Move
The All India Congress Committee (AICC) has appointed Shivakumar as a senior observer for Assam alongside former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and Jharkhand leader Bandhu Tirkey. This move is part of the party's preparations to launch a formidable campaign against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The elections for Assam's 126 legislative seats are scheduled to be held in March–April 2024.
"I Don't Have Any Option": Shivakumar's Statement
Addressing reporters, Shivakumar confirmed his compliance with the party's decision. "I don't have any option. Whatever the party tells us to do, we have to do it. That is what being a Congressman means," he said. He acknowledged having seen the official AICC press release mandating his oversight role for Assam. "I had been to Assam earlier as well, long ago, and now they want me there again. I will be going," the Karnataka Congress president added, underlining his commitment to the task.
Political Implications in Karnataka
This development has sparked considerable interest within Karnataka's political circles. It arrives amid persistent speculation regarding potential leadership changes within the state government. Shivakumar is widely perceived as a central figure in the Congress's internal power structure. These discussions gained momentum after the Siddaramaiah-led government completed half its term in November 2023. His new national role is being closely watched for its potential impact on the state's political dynamics.
The Congress party is aiming to present a strong challenge in Assam, and the deployment of senior leaders like Shivakumar, Baghel, and Tirkey is a key part of that electoral strategy.
