Intra-Party Tensions in Karnataka Congress: DK Shivakumar Meets Mallikarjun Kharge

Synopsis

In the midst of ongoing conflicts within the Karnataka Congress, D. K. Shivakumar met with Mallikarjun Kharge, emphasizing his respect for party leadership. This meeting follows statements from other Congress leaders regarding Shivakumar's potential as Chief Minister, amid ongoing political maneuvers.

Key Takeaways

Infighting within Karnataka Congress continues.
D. K. Shivakumar meets with Mallikarjun Kharge.
Shivakumar's supporters anticipate his rise to Chief Minister.
Party leaders emphasize the importance of high command decisions.
Political tensions suggest upcoming shifts in leadership.

Bengaluru, March 4 (NationPress) Amid the persistent infighting within the Karnataka Congress, the State Congress President and Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar had a meeting with AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge at his residence in Bengaluru on Tuesday.

The 20-minute meeting became notable after comments from former Union Minister and ex-Chief Minister Veerappa Moily, who stated that no one could stop Shivakumar from becoming the Chief Minister.

MLA Basavaraju Shivaganga, a strong supporter of Shivakumar, mentioned that the party's state chief is expected to take over as Chief Minister in December and lead the party into the upcoming Assembly elections.

Speaking to the media following the meeting, Shivakumar remarked: "Kharge is our national president, and if I do not respect him, who else should I respect?"

"Should I visit the BJP office instead? I am managing the construction of our new office and have asked for his presence at the ground-breaking ceremony. Nothing more was discussed," he emphasized.

In response to Moily's comments, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that he would adhere to the directives from the Congress high command.

Siddaramaiah reiterated, "I will say this again, the remarks from former Union Minister Veerappa Moily or any other leaders hold no significance. The decisions from the party high command are paramount, and we will comply with them."

Shivakumar also noted that Kharge instructed party members to refrain from discussing any changes regarding the state's Chief Minister's position.

Regarding Moily's statements, Shivakumar responded that they represented the former union minister's personal views.

However, BJP state president B. Y. Vijayendra remarked that Moily hinted at Shivakumar's imminent rise to the Chief Minister's role, suggesting rapid political changes in the state.

Additionally, Shivakumar's spiritual visit to the Sangam in Prayagraj and his commendation of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have sparked intrigue within the Congress party.