D. K. Shivakumar Conducts Homa for Personal Protection Amidst Congress Disputes in Karnataka

Bengaluru, Jan 10 (NationPress) In light of allegations of discord within the Congress's state unit, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar shared on Friday that he held a homa ceremony for his own protection.

Shivakumar made these remarks while addressing the press after his visit to the Venkateshwara Temple in Malleswaram, Bengaluru, coinciding with the Vaikuntha Ekadashi festival.

"I engage in rituals for my peace and serenity. I am someone who worships, performs rituals, and frequents temples on a daily basis," Shivakumar stated when questioned about his recent rituals performed at temples in Tamil Nadu.

In response to Union Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy's allegations that Shivakumar's rituals aimed to "harm" his adversaries, he responded, "I pray every day for positive outcomes. I seek protection from those who cause me distress. There is nothing secretive about this."

He added, "Even you (the media) cause me considerable trouble. You fabricate new, unfounded stories. I also pray for protection from you."

"I offered my prayers to Venkateshwara along with Lakshmi during Vaikuntha Ekadashi, wishing for prosperity in all households across the state. This reflects our beliefs and tradition. 'Dharma safeguards those who uphold it.' People statewide are visiting Venkateshwara temples to receive blessings. May everyone be blessed with divine grace," he continued.

Reports suggest Shivakumar visited the Pratyangira Devi temple in Tamil Nadu seeking strength against political rivals within the party, just before the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting.

His temple visit has ignited conversations in Karnataka's political landscape.

There are indications that Shivakumar is maneuvering to secure the Chief Minister's role, as per the power-sharing arrangement with current CM Siddaramaiah. However, he is allegedly met with significant opposition.

Recent accounts indicate that Siddaramaiah hosted a dinner gathering with 34 MLAs and seven Ministers in Bengaluru, referring to the New Year celebrations. Notably, Deputy CM Shivakumar was not present.

During the meeting, a decision was made to increase RTC bus fares by 15 percent, signaling to the Congress high command and Shivakumar that Siddaramaiah continues to maintain a strong grip on the position of CM in Karnataka.

After returning to India, Shivakumar remained in New Delhi and persuaded the party's high command to cancel a meeting called by Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara for Congress MLAs, Ministers, and MPs from SC and ST communities.

This meeting allegedly aimed to push for a Dalit Chief Minister if there were changes in leadership. Parameshwara had previously stated he is not in politics to relinquish power, fueling speculation about his ambitions.

Following this, CM Siddaramaiah scheduled a Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting for January 13, exercising his authority.

Sources suggest this maneuver is intended to demonstrate to Shivakumar that he does not have complete control in the state.

The Siddaramaiah faction is reportedly preparing to assert its influence and showcase unity behind the CM during the upcoming meeting, effectively countering any leadership change attempts.

Ministers K. N. Rajanna and Satish Jarkiholi expressed their displeasure following the postponement of the SC/ST leaders' meeting.

Rajanna commented that the meeting was not about taking Shivakumar's property and questioned why he should be upset.

Jarkiholi noted that while one faction may currently hold an advantage, his group will also find a favorable position soon.

Parameshwara clarified that the meeting was merely postponed, not canceled, and stated that if the party does not permit such meetings in the future, they have the capability to handle the situation.

All attention is now focused on the agenda for the upcoming CLP meeting.

Karnataka Congress unit in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala is anticipated to visit Bengaluru for the meeting.