Karnataka Congress Faces Escalating Factional Strife
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Synopsis
The Karnataka Congress, once seen as a unified front, is on the verge of deeper factional strife as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's camp plans extensive conventions for oppressed classes, aiming to consolidate power and send a message to Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar amidst growing tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Factionalism threatens Karnataka Congress's unity.
- Conventions aim to establish Siddaramaiah's leadership.
- High command struggles to control both leaders.
- Shivakumar feels the pressure amidst legal issues.
- Potential for significant internal conflict looms.
Bengaluru, Feb 16 (NationPress) The ruling Congress faction in Karnataka, which previously appeared unified, might soon experience a more severe phase of factionalism. This comes as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s group prepares to hold significant conventions for the oppressed and backward classes throughout the state.
While leaders assert that these conventions aim to fortify the party, insiders indicate that Siddaramaiah’s camp seeks to establish him as the undisputed leader of Dalits, backwards, and minorities. This strategy aims to convey a strong message to the high command and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar, discouraging any interference.
Sources reveal that ministers aligned with CM Siddaramaiah are branding these gatherings as conventions for the oppressed classes, with plans to have them inaugurated by the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi.
Minister for Cooperation K.N. Rajanna has stated that the high command has responded positively to the proposed conventions. Minister for Health H.C. Mahadevappa has reiterated that CM Siddaramaiah is a mass leader, questioning which political party would oppose his leadership.
The State President and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar is reportedly unsettled by recent developments following the High Court's dismissal of a plea for a CBI investigation relating to the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam, where CM Siddaramaiah is named as the primary accused.
The Siddaramaiah camp is actively working to remove Shivakumar from the State President position. Minister Rajanna has even expressed his willingness to assume the State President role, stating he would resign from his ministerial position.
Deputy CM Shivakumar has positioned himself as a powerful figure within Congress, equal to CM Siddaramaiah. Both leaders have successfully maintained coordination and unity despite their differences, thwarting attempts by the BJP and JD (S) to undermine the Congress-led government.
Indications of escalating infighting have been highlighted by the Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, R. Ashoka, who has warned that if CM Siddaramaiah does not resign by November, the party may face a substantial crisis, leading to potential street battles among Congress leaders across the state.
The Congress high command is currently unable to exert control over either CM Siddaramaiah or Deputy CM Shivakumar, facing a critical test. Rahul Gandhi has shown a preference for CM Siddaramaiah while also recognizing Shivakumar’s sacrifices and contributions.
Shivakumar had previously disclosed that he was presented with two options by authorities before his imprisonment in a disproportionate assets case: join the BJP or face Tihar Jail, and he chose the latter.
CM Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar stand among the few leaders unafraid to vocally criticize Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the Hindutva forces. Shivakumar has been tasked by the party to tackle the Congress crisis in various states.
The High Command is increasingly anxious regarding the looming crisis in Karnataka, the largest state in India governed by the Congress.
