K'taka Dy CM Shivakumar: Party's Strength Unaffected by Leadership Changes
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Synopsis
Bengaluru, Jan 16 (NationPress) Amid calls for his replacement as the Karnataka Congress chief, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar emphasized that the party remains robust regardless of leadership changes and urged leaders to keep discussions private.
Key Takeaways
- Party's Resilience: The Congress party's strength endures regardless of leadership changes.
- Focus on Trust: The commitment and trust of party workers and voters are paramount.
- Internal Matters: Issues should be resolved privately and not aired publicly.
- Historical Examples: Leaders like Gandhi and Ambedkar exemplify selfless service over power.
- Upcoming Event: Preparations are underway for the Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Constitution convention.
Bengaluru, Jan 16 (NationPress) In response to calls for his replacement as the Karnataka Congress chief, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar asserted on Thursday that the party will remain resilient, regardless of who is in positions of power, and emphasized that leaders should avoid public comments.
While addressing the press, Shivakumar remarked, “This party did not achieve power merely because of D.K. Shivakumar. It is a consequence of the dedication and faith shown by our workers and voters. We need to safeguard and uphold this trust. The Congress party is built by the workers and voters and possesses a long, illustrious history. Regardless of who comes or goes, the party has the capacity to endure.”
“Mahatma Gandhi fought for our nation’s independence and renounced power. Ambedkar, who drafted the Constitution, did he hold any significant power? We should cherish such examples. Therefore, I respectfully urge that the party's welfare is of greater importance than making public statements. Those facing challenges should engage in dialogue with the high command,” Shivakumar emphasized.
“Currently, we are gearing up for the Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Constitution convention. AICC in-charge Randeep Surjewala will be in Belagavi on Friday to supervise the arrangements. Any further inquiries can be directed to him,” Shivakumar conveyed.
When questioned about Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi’s comments regarding the party's decline and the necessity for a full-time KPCC president, Shivakumar replied, “It is not my place to clarify this issue. It lies with AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge. Any questions regarding this should be directed to him. Challenging Mallikarjun Kharge’s decisions is inappropriate,” he concluded.
“KPCC positions aren’t available for purchase, nor can they be acquired through media discussions,” Shivakumar stated. “Party leaders acknowledge and reward our efforts appropriately. Does anyone solicit positions through the media? This concept is entirely new to me,” he remarked.
Shivakumar stated, “If there are any substantial developments regarding party matters, I will personally hold a press conference to inform the public. Our current focus should be on organizing, preserving, and expanding the party. The Chief Minister and senior leaders have advised everyone to uphold discipline within the party. They have also instructed us not to discuss internal matters publicly.”
“Party concerns should not be publicly aired. Whatever the issue, approach the AICC President, Rahul Gandhi, the Chief Minister, or me directly. This guidance applies not only to Congress but also to any party—be it BJP, JD(S), or farmers’ associations. Internal matters must be settled within the party,” he insisted.
“Even if I wished for a specific position, would you (the media) grant it to me? Are these positions for sale? Speaking to the media won’t assist; in fact, it may do the opposite,” he added.
Insider reports indicated that infighting has emerged following Dy CM Shivakumar's claim to the CM’s position. Close associates of CM Siddaramaiah, including Minister for Cooperation K.N. Rajanna, Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi, Minister for Excise R.B. Thimmapur, and Minister for Social Welfare H.C. Mahadevappa have openly expressed challenging views aimed at Shivakumar, in support of CM Siddaramaiah.
Shivakumar delivered a warning via KPCC Working President Manjunath Bhandary on Thursday to Ministers Satish Jarkiholi and H.C. Mahadevappa for their repeated comments regarding a power shift.
This statement emerged as tensions within the party escalated, and sources suggested it served as a warning to the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah faction.
The internal conflict within the ruling Congress party has intensified, with Home Minister G. Parameshwara asserting that it is common for leaders to call for the replacement of the current Karnataka Congress state head. “He (D.K. Shivakumar) currently leads the state unit and holds two major portfolios. Given this context, leaders will naturally seek a change,” Parameshwara commented.
