Is There a Rift in Karnataka Congress? KC Venugopal Weighs In
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- K.C. Venugopal denies rumors of discord in Karnataka's Congress leadership.
- Both Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar emphasize their unity.
- They plan to collaborate strategically for the 2028 Assembly elections.
- Internal discussions among MLAs do not indicate dissent.
- Both leaders are prepared to face the opposition in the upcoming Winter Session.
Thiruvananthapuram/Bengaluru, Nov 29 (NationPress) In the midst of rampant media speculation regarding a supposed power struggle within Karnataka’s Congress leadership, AICC General Secretary and MP K.C. Venugopal vehemently dismissed claims of discord between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar as “fabricated and unfounded”.
Countering the rumors, Venugopal emphasized that both leaders share a strong rapport and collaborate closely on governance and electoral strategies.
“Earlier today, Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar enjoyed breakfast together. Was that not visible to the media? Should any necessary actions arise, the Congress high command will make decisions at the right moment,” he stated to reporters here.
Earlier today, Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar made a notable joint appearance before the press at the Chief Minister’s official residence, Cauvery, in Bengaluru, affirming their unity.
“Our unity is steadfast. We stand together. There are no disputes between us,” the two leaders asserted.
They also released a joint statement pledging to work “collectively and strategically” to secure victory in the 2028 Assembly elections and the impending local body elections.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remarked, “Recently, confusion has been stirred. Thus, we convened and discussed. Just as we collaborated during the 2023 Assembly elections, we will persist in our teamwork. There are no differences now, nor will there be in the future.”
He indicated that any decisions regarding power-sharing or leadership transitions would be solely determined by the party high command.
“I have consistently stated that we will adhere to whatever the high command decides,” he reiterated.
Addressing inquiries about reports of MLAs traveling to Delhi, the Chief Minister clarified that internal discussions or cabinet reshuffle talks are standard procedures and do not signify dissent.
“Whatever directives or instructions the high command provides will be followed. There is no discord between myself and Shivakumar,” he affirmed.
Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar expressed similar views, describing himself and Siddaramaiah as “dedicated soldiers of the party.”
Highlighting discipline and unity, he stated, “Regarding leadership, we will comply with the Congress high command. Whatever directives the party issues, we will execute.”
With the Winter Session of the Assembly set to commence on December 8, both leaders affirmed their readiness to “confront the opposition effectively.”