Karnataka Dy CM Shivakumar: Only Ground Workers to Get Party Positions

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Karnataka Dy CM Shivakumar: Only Ground Workers to Get Party Positions

Synopsis

Karnataka Dy CM D.K. Shivakumar emphasizes that the Congress party will prioritize rewarding dedicated ground workers over those who lobby in Bengaluru. This stance may intensify internal conflicts within the party, as some Ministers push for their supporters' inclusion.

Key Takeaways

  • Focus on ground-level workers for party positions.
  • Internal rifts may escalate in Karnataka Congress.
  • Shivakumar is prioritizing results-oriented leaders.
  • Women's inclusion is emphasized in the office-bearers list.
  • Concerns over state irrigation projects raised with Union minister.

Bengaluru, Feb 25 (NationPress) Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated that the party will recognize only those members who diligently work on the ground rather than those who engage in lobbying with leaders in Bengaluru.

This assertion has reportedly caused discontent among Ministers who are advocating for positions for their supporters. This situation is anticipated to further deepen the divisions within the Karnataka unit, especially since some Ministers are openly calling for Shivakumar's replacement as the state Congress president.

While speaking to journalists at his residence in Sadashivanagar, Bengaluru, prior to his journey to Delhi on Tuesday, he mentioned, “We require individuals who operate at the taluk level; we do not need those who orbit around senior leaders in Bengaluru. If we allocate positions of authority, they must produce results. We will prioritize those leaders who are effective on the ground and can deliver outcomes.”

This was in response to inquiries regarding the exclusion of close associates of certain Ministers from the list of office-bearers.

When asked if the office-bearers’ list would be presented to the High Command, he replied, “The list is prepared, but we will not submit it at this moment. We need to replace those uninterested in these roles. We require individuals who can dedicate themselves fully on the ground. Appointing someone based on influence or pressure is of no benefit. The AICC has explicitly directed us to prioritize those willing to exert effort. We are also emphasizing the inclusion of women in light of the reservation. We are consulting with Ministers on this, and the list will be finalized this week.”

Regarding his visit to Delhi, he stated, “I addressed concerns about the state’s irrigation projects with Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil during a recent meeting of state irrigation ministers in Rajasthan. The Union minister has allocated time for us to discuss these issues, which is the reason for my visit.”

“Our officials from the Irrigation department have already conducted initial meetings with Union Jal Shakti officials in Delhi... We will pursue approvals for irrigation projects in the state,” he added.