Will Shivakumar Become CM When the High Command Decides?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Unity: CM Siddaramaiah and Dy CM Shivakumar emphasize their strong partnership.
- Leadership Decisions: They will follow the high command's direction regarding leadership transitions.
- Strategic Planning: Discussions on strategies for the upcoming Winter Session are crucial.
- Collaborative Efforts: The leaders are committed to working together for the party’s success.
- Future Goals: Their focus includes preparations for the 2028 Assembly elections.
Bengaluru, Dec 2 (NationPress) The anticipated breakfast meeting held by Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah wrapped up on Tuesday morning. After spending close to one and a half hours together, both leaders emphasized their unity and commitment to work collaboratively. They also affirmed their adherence to the decisions made by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and the high command regarding leadership matters.
Speaking to the media alongside Dy CM Shivakumar after their meeting, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remarked that he and Shivakumar share a bond akin to that of brothers and will persist in their efforts for the party. When questioned about the timeline for Shivakumar's ascension to the Chief Minister position, Siddaramaiah responded that it would be contingent upon the high command's decision.
“I attended breakfast at Shivakumar’s residence today. Earlier, he had come to our house for breakfast and had extended an invitation for a meal at his place. I accepted, and today I enjoyed breakfast with him,” he noted.
“We deliberated on party-related issues. Notably, the Winter Session is set to commence on December 8 and will span two weeks. We strategized on various matters, including the BJP's preparations for a no-confidence motion. We are ready to tackle these challenges head-on. The BJP-JD(S) leaders, including Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy and Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka, have already engaged in discussions. We outlined our approach for the Assembly session,” he added.
Regarding the leadership question, the Chief Minister mentioned, “This was also a topic during our previous breakfast meeting. Whatever decision the high command and Rahul Gandhi arrive at, we will comply with it. We remain united, not just during our recent breakfast but always.”
“I will meet with high command leaders if they grant me an appointment. Tomorrow, I will be meeting National General Secretary and MP K.C. Venugopal in Mangaluru for a joint event,” he stated.
“We also plan to convene a Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting and dine together. Shivakumar and I are indeed like brothers. Our work aligns with one party and one ideology. Importantly, we will collaborate for the 2028 Assembly elections,” CM Siddaramaiah expressed.
Elaborating on the breakfast, CM Siddaramaiah shared, “Non-vegetarian delicacies were prepared at his home, while our breakfast consisted of vegetarian options. I am a non-vegetarian, and he (Shivakumar) follows a vegetarian diet. I requested him to source good country chicken from the village as the native breed isn't available here.”
Dy CM Shivakumar echoed the sentiment of unity, stating that he and the Chief Minister discussed government and party matters during their breakfast meeting.
Previously, CM Siddaramaiah enjoyed idlis and 'natikoli saaru' (a chicken gravy dish) during a breakfast meeting at Dy CM and state Congress President D.K. Shivakumar's residence.
Shivakumar’s brother and former MP D.K. Suresh, along with Congress MLA and Shivakumar’s loyal supporter H.D. Ranganath, also participated in the breakfast.
Posting on X, Dy CM Shivakumar stated, “Hosted the Hon’ble CM for breakfast at my residence today as we reaffirm our commitment to good governance and the ongoing development of our state under the Congress' vision.”
The breakfast meeting took place at Shivakumar's private residence in Sadashivanagar, Bengaluru.
CM Siddaramaiah received a warm welcome from Shivakumar and Suresh. Suresh and MLA Ranganath showed their respect by touching the Chief Minister’s feet. Suresh presented him with a bouquet and honored him with a shawl, while Shivakumar graciously greeted him and escorted him inside.
CM Siddaramaiah invited Suresh and Ranganath to join the breakfast as well. As Siddaramaiah served idlis and his favorite 'natikoli saaru', Shivakumar, adhering to his vow, abstained from non-vegetarian food and enjoyed idlis with vegetable sambar.