Why is Shivakumar Opposing Portfolio Transfers in Karnataka?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The political landscape in Karnataka is heating up as D. K. Shivakumar, the Deputy Chief Minister, raises objections to official transfers made without his consent. This dispute has sparked discussions about the relationship between him and CM Siddaramaiah, hinting at deeper political tensions within the state.
Key Takeaways
- D. K. Shivakumar firmly opposes unauthorized official transfers.
- He has communicated that future decisions must have his explicit consent.
- The transfers have sparked political discourse about leadership dynamics in Karnataka.
- CM Siddaramaiah is seeking to reconcile with dissenting Congress leaders.
- The situation indicates potential shifts in the state's political landscape.
Bengaluru, May 29 (NationPress) In a pivotal turn of events, Deputy Chief Minister and President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, D. K. Shivakumar, has vehemently opposed the transfer of several officials without his prior knowledge or agreement, according to sources.
Shivakumar, who is also in charge of the Water Resources portfolio, has addressed a letter to the Chief Secretary, expressing his discontent regarding the transfers and delivering a stern warning, sources reported.
The Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR), overseen by CM Siddaramaiah, issued an order that transferred five chief engineers.
In his correspondence, Shivakumar emphasized that he had previously communicated to the Chief Secretary that all transfers, recruitments, or departmental decisions under his jurisdiction should be presented to him and executed solely with his approval.
He asserted that the DPAR could issue such orders only after obtaining his consent. However, he has now discovered that some chief engineers were moved without his approval.
Shivakumar strongly condemned what he described as a breach of his directives and urged the Chief Secretary to annul the transfer orders.
He also insisted that in the future, no decisions regarding his portfolio should be made without his explicit consent, as confirmed by sources.
This incident has ignited discussions within Karnataka's political landscape, with many interpreting it as an indication of deteriorating relations between CM Siddaramaiah and Dy CM Shivakumar.
In response, Karnataka BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra remarked on Thursday that the state is approaching a significant political transformation.
"All these occurrences are merely the beginning. These events are leading to a pivotal moment. CM Siddaramaiah himself has visited MLC B.K. Hariprasad's residence - keep an eye on the developments in the coming days," he stated.
CM Siddaramaiah met Congress MLC B.K. Hariprasad at his residence on Thursday morning for discussions. Hariprasad had previously been critical of Siddaramaiah and had distanced himself from him for an extended period.
Sources indicate that Siddaramaiah is now trying to mend fences with senior Congress leaders who have been antagonistic towards him, aiming to unify them to strengthen his position against Deputy CM Shivakumar.
However, during a media interaction, both CM Siddaramaiah and Hariprasad insisted that their discussions revolved around general topics and the situation in Mangaluru.
Point of View
The ongoing conflict between Deputy CM Shivakumar and CM Siddaramaiah highlights the complexities of coalition governance. While Shivakumar's objections may stem from a desire to assert authority over his portfolio, it also reveals underlying power struggles within the Karnataka Congress. As the political atmosphere intensifies, it is crucial to monitor how these dynamics will influence governance and public trust in the region.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did D. K. Shivakumar object to?
D. K. Shivakumar objected to the transfer of certain officials without his prior knowledge or consent.
Who issued the transfer orders?
The transfer orders were issued by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR), which is under CM Siddaramaiah.
What action did Shivakumar take regarding the transfers?
Shivakumar wrote a letter to the Chief Secretary protesting the transfers and demanded that they be revoked.
How have these developments affected political relations in Karnataka?
These developments have sparked debates about the deteriorating relations between CM Siddaramaiah and Dy CM Shivakumar.
What is the stance of the Karnataka BJP regarding this situation?
Karnataka BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra commented that the state is headed for a major political shift, suggesting that these events are just the beginning.
