What Did D.K. Shivakumar and CM Siddaramaiah Discuss Amid Karnataka Congress Crisis?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Bengaluru, Feb 10 (NationPress) The internal power dynamics within the ruling Congress party in Karnataka seem to be intensifying. Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar mentioned that both he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah are on the same page regarding their discussions with the party leadership.
He emphasized, “We are acting on what we discussed,” which has sparked new speculation.
Shivakumar urged party leaders to avoid making public statements, seemingly in reference to comments made by the Chief Minister's son, Congress MLC Yathindra, who indicated that his father, CM Siddaramaiah, would serve his complete term, dismissing calls for his removal from the party's Central leadership.
Addressing the media in Bengaluru before heading to Delhi, Shivakumar clarified that “While others may be confused, we are not. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and I are clear about our discussions.”
“Some leaders are making comments and causing tension,” he pointed out, specifically targeting the remarks made by CM Siddaramaiah's son, Congress MLC Yathindra.
He further asserted, “The Chief Minister and I are united in our discussions. We did not have any private talks. Siddaramaiah, I, and the party leadership consulted together, and we are proceeding based on that mutual understanding.”
When questioned about the statement made by Shivakumar's loyalist MLA Iqbal Hussain regarding notices being sent to leaders for discussing leadership matters, while the same rules do not apply to the CM's son, Shivakumar responded, “Let's consult the high command.”
He added, “Some leaders are making statements that either support or oppose me. This is harmful to the party. As AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge has indicated, all leaders should stay silent to benefit the party.”
Talking about his trip to Delhi, Shivakumar stated, “I have a meeting at the AICC concerning political issues related to upcoming elections, and I am traveling to Delhi for that purpose. The AICC has summoned me, with meeting dates yet to be finalized. I recently visited Kerala and plan to go to Assam too. Given that Budget preparation meetings are ongoing, I have informed the Chief Minister.”
“I will also meet with other leaders,” he confirmed. When asked if he would engage with the party high command, he mentioned, “I will meet all national leaders when I arrive there.”
In response to loyalist MLAs suggesting he would receive “good news,” Shivakumar replied, “Every day is good news for me. Each day brings happiness, and resolving issues for the people gives me joy. There’s nothing more fulfilling than that.”
Shivakumar's visit to Delhi amid the leadership “struggle” has fueled speculation.