Will Karnataka's Deputy CM Embrace Slogans for His Candidacy?
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Synopsis
In a recent address, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar defended the long-standing chants from his supporters urging for his candidacy as Chief Minister. He emphasized the importance of viewing these political slogans in a sporting manner, acknowledging that politics is a realm filled with both support and dissent.
Key Takeaways
- D.K. Shivakumar emphasizes the importance of viewing political slogans with a sporting spirit.
- Political dynamics often involve vocal support and dissent.
- Shivakumar defends his expensive watch, citing transparency in his financial disclosures.
- Sibling support is evident in the responses to political chants.
- Local political events continue to shape the landscape in Karnataka.
Bengaluru, Dec 3 (NationPress) In a spirited defense of the slogans voiced by his supporters advocating for his position as Karnataka’s Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar remarked that these chants have been part of the political landscape for the past 10 years. Speaking at Mangaluru International Airport in the presence of National General Secretary and Congress Lok Sabha Member K.C. Venugopal, Shivakumar insisted that such expressions should be embraced in a 'sporting spirit' as 'in politics, there will be slogans both for and against us.'
Responding to inquiries regarding the chants for him in front of Venugopal, Dy CM Shivakumar said, “The slogans ‘DK, DK’ have been ongoing for the last decade. There is nothing inappropriate about it. Just as some people chant in support of Modi, others support ‘DK’. Some call out ‘Rahul, Rahul’, while others say ‘Siddu, Siddu’. It stems from love and respect. We must view it in a sporting spirit.”
“Supporters voice their admiration through slogans. In politics, we encounter both supportive and opposing chants. It’s not something to dwell on excessively,” he added.
When pressed about Minister Satish Jarkiholi’s remark regarding the impermanence of power and the possibility of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stepping down before the government completes 30 months, Shivakumar stated, “I refrain from commenting on statements from our party leaders. I represent my party and myself.”
On the subject of the expensive watches sported by him and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar clarified, “This is my personal watch. I purchased it seven years ago for Rs 24 lakh, paid via my credit card. The media can verify my credit card records. I also declared it in my election affidavit.”
When questioned regarding the Chief Minister, a self-identified socialist, wearing a lavish watch, he remarked, “The Chief Minister has every right to choose his accessories. He is financially capable of such purchases. Watches are a passion for many; my father owned seven. Shouldn’t I or my brother wear them after his passing?”
When asked about the pro-D.K. slogans at Venugopal's arrival, Shivakumar's brother and former Congress MP D.K. Suresh stated, “Some individuals may have shouted out of admiration, but they did not disrupt anyone.”
In response to the Chief Minister’s comment about the transient nature of politics, Suresh noted, “There’s no need to overanalyze the Chief Minister's remarks made in casual conversation.”
Regarding K.C. Venugopal's visit to the state, Suresh mentioned, “He is here for a program in Mangaluru and will head to Kerala afterward for local body elections.”
It’s worth noting that pro-Shivakumar chants erupted upon K.C. Venugopal's arrival, leading to an awkward moment as he exited Mangaluru International Airport earlier on Wednesday. A significant number of supporters, led by local leaders, began their chants after Siddaramaiah emerged from the airport, receiving state honors from the district administration. In reaction to the pro-Shivakumar chants, Siddaramaiah's supporters responded with chants in his favor, creating an embarrassing moment for the party.
Point of View
The ongoing political dynamics in Karnataka highlight the intricate relationship between public sentiment and political leadership. D.K. Shivakumar's defense of his supporters' slogans reflects a broader trend in Indian politics where personal loyalties and public expressions play a significant role in shaping political narratives. As the situation unfolds, it remains crucial to observe how these dynamics influence party cohesion and electoral strategies moving forward.
NationPress
03/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did D.K. Shivakumar say about the slogans from his supporters?
D.K. Shivakumar stated that the slogans have been part of the political landscape for the last 10 years and should be taken in a sporting spirit.
How did Shivakumar respond to comments about expensive watches?
He clarified that his watch was purchased seven years ago for Rs 24 lakh and is documented in his election affidavit.
What did Shivakumar's brother say about the pro-D.K. chants?
D.K. Suresh mentioned that while some may have shouted out of admiration, they did not disrupt anyone.
What was the context of K.C. Venugopal's visit?
K.C. Venugopal visited for a program in Mangaluru and will head to Kerala for local body elections afterward.
What was the reaction to the pro-Shivakumar slogans?
Pro-Shivakumar slogans created a moment of tension when Siddaramaiah's supporters chanted in response, leading to an awkward situation.
