Is There Really No Groupism Among Congress MLAs? Shivakumar Speaks Out
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Synopsis
Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar speaks out against allegations of factionalism within Congress, emphasizing unity among all 140 MLAs. As he prepares to address voter fraud protests, he expresses gratitude towards constituents and highlights the importance of hospitality.
Key Takeaways
- Unity among Congress MLAs emphasized by Shivakumar
- No groupism within the party, according to Deputy Chief Minister
- Participation in anti-voter fraud protests planned
- Community support highlighted by Shivakumar
- 1.43 crore signatures collected against voter fraud
Belagavi, Dec 12 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar asserted on Friday that there is a lack of groupism among the party's members in the state, emphasizing that all 140 MLAs are united under the Congress banner.
“Every one of the 140 MLAs, myself included, along with the Chief Minister, is part of a single group, and that is the Congress group. Please do not attempt to form any other factions,” Shivakumar stated, addressing inquiries regarding a recent dinner gathering.
On Thursday, a dinner event was held, which was perceived as a demonstration of strength by Shivakumar.
“I am not here to showcase any power, nor is it necessary for me to do so,” he clarified.
Elaborating on the dinner meeting, the Deputy Chief Minister mentioned that it was organized by his friend Doddannanavar.
“For the past 15 years, they have graciously invited us for meals. We attended merely out of respect for their family,” he explained.
Shivakumar remarked that constituents also bring food; should he decline their hospitality?
“They invite us with warmth. We dine at various locations daily. A young man from my constituency mentioned sending ‘ragi mudde’ (a traditional ragi dish) and ‘saaru’ (sambar). How could we turn them down? Tomorrow, senior leaders Asif Seth and Firoz Seth have also invited us for dinner,” he added.
Regarding comments from Chief Minister’s son MLC Yathindra about the Chief Minister’s role, he stated that the Chief Minister will address all matters.
On other political updates, the Deputy Chief Minister announced his travel to Delhi on December 13 to join the protest against voter fraud.
He noted that the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has initiated the fight against voter fraud right from Karnataka.
“In 2023, we uncovered voter theft linked to the Chilume scandal. Together with AICC General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala, I lodged complaints with the Election Commission and fought the case, ultimately succeeding in the Assembly elections,” he noted.
Shivakumar added that LoP Rahul Gandhi has now presented evidence of voter theft during the Lok Sabha elections to the public.
He pointed out that the Election Commission has become a tool for a particular political party, and they are campaigning against this.
“In the statewide signature campaign concerning this issue, we collected 1.43 crore signatures. I commend all workers and leaders involved,” he stated.
On the subject of allowing cricket matches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, he confirmed that the state government has implemented necessary measures to safeguard Bengaluru’s reputation.
Point of View
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar's statements reaffirming unity among Congress MLAs serve as a reminder of the importance of solidarity within political parties, especially in times of challenges. His approach reflects a focus on community and collaboration, vital for maintaining political stability.
NationPress
13/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did D.K. Shivakumar say about groupism within Congress?
D.K. Shivakumar stated that there is no groupism among the Congress MLAs in Karnataka and emphasized that all 140 MLAs belong to the Congress group.
Why did Shivakumar attend the dinner meeting?
He attended the dinner meeting out of respect for his friend's family, who has been inviting Congress leaders for meals for many years.
What protest is Shivakumar participating in?
Shivakumar will be traveling to Delhi to participate in a protest against voter fraud.
What evidence has Rahul Gandhi presented?
Rahul Gandhi has presented evidence of voter theft that occurred during the Lok Sabha elections.
How many signatures were collected in the signature campaign?
In the signature campaign against voter fraud, 1.43 crore signatures were collected.
