Is There Really a Rift Between Karnataka’s Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ashok Gehlot emphasizes unity among Karnataka leaders.
- Criticism of Rajasthan's current government as incompetent.
- Concerns raised about the integrity of the Election Commission.
- Dismissal of power-sharing rumors within the Congress party.
- Warning about potential threats to democracy in India.
Jaipur, Nov 29 (NationPress) Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot firmly dismissed any notion of discord between Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, emphasizing that there is no divorce between them, only love.
“When leaders gather at the breakfast table, it signifies unity. Love isn’t the story; divorce is,” he stated during a speech to the Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee.
Gehlot rejected rumors of internal conflicts in Karnataka, asserting, “The Congress stands united under the guidance of Rahul Gandhi and Kharge.
He responded emphatically to ongoing discussions regarding proposed power-sharing arrangements and leadership uncertainties, particularly concerning the recent events in Karnataka and previous incidents in Chhattisgarh.
Gehlot highlighted that some leaders often mention Rahul Gandhi’s name to claim they were “destined to become Chief Minister” or were offered power-sharing deals.
“People misuse Rahul Gandhi’s name,” Gehlot remarked. “Some assert they were promised two and a half years. During the time of the Chhattisgarh government, similar two-and-a-half-year formulas were discussed. Such discussions undermine the party’s integrity.”
Regarding the situation in Karnataka, where rumors about a rotating chief ministership have ignited debate, Gehlot stressed that only Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are aware of the actual decisions.
Turning his focus to Rajasthan, Gehlot harshly critiqued the existing administration, labeling it “incompetent” and “irresponsible.”
“There is an incompetent government in Rajasthan,” he stated. “Law and order have deteriorated. Daily, we witness accidents and suicides.”
“If this two-and-a-half-year arrangement exists, let Karnataka’s CM and Deputy CM confirm it. Otherwise, it’s mere gossip,” he added.
Gehlot also accused the Election Commission of bias, cautioning that its conduct could jeopardize India’s democratic structure.
“The Election Commission's stance has become a significant concern,” he said. “If it operates as an extension of the government, how will democracy endure?”
He expressed fears regarding the current political climate, questioning whether future elections will remain fair and free.
“Will elections resemble Russia, where 98 percent of votes favor the ruling party?” Gehlot queried.
“Democracy in India has thrived due to Ambedkar’s Constitution. However, the current atmosphere in the country is alarmingly perilous.”