Karnataka Dy CM Shivakumar Denies Infighting Claims, Commits to Party Sacrifices
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Synopsis
On January 20 in Belagavi, Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar dismissed allegations of infighting within the Congress party as false. He emphasized his dedication to making sacrifices for the party's future and refuted any claims of personal disputes.
Key Takeaways
- Shivakumar refutes infighting claims.
- Stresses importance of party unity.
- Commitment to sacrifices for party.
- Denies political differences.
- Focus on strengthening Congress.
Belagavi (Karnataka), Jan 20 (NationPress) In response to allegations of discord within the Congress party, Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar asserted on Monday that all assertions of infighting are groundless fabrications and that he harbors no disagreements with anyone in the party. The President of the state Congress further stated that he has made significant sacrifices in the past and intends to continue doing so for the party's benefit.
These remarks are particularly noteworthy as Dy CM Shivakumar suggested he would not pursue the Chief Minister’s position within the state.
During a press conference in Belagavi on Monday, Shivakumar remarked, “I have consistently made sacrifices for the party since the beginning. While serving under the coalition government led by the late Chief Minister N. Dharam Singh, I maintained my commitment and continued working diligently.”
“Even throughout Siddaramaiah’s initial term as Chief Minister, I held back and made sacrifices. The party is paramount for me. It has played a crucial role in my growth.”
“All reports concerning infighting are untrue. We have worked tirelessly to fortify the Congress party. I categorically state that there is no rebellion within the state Congress unit. Claims of infighting are unfounded lies. I do not have any differences with anyone in the party.”
When questioned about his commitment to prioritize the party, Dy CM Shivakumar responded, “I will keep making sacrifices. If it serves the people’s interests, I find joy in it.”
During Siddaramaiah’s first term, Shivakumar was excluded from power and denied a Cabinet position. Similarly, during the late Dharam Singh’s administration, formed in collaboration with the JD(S), former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda ensured Shivakumar did not attain a prominent role, sources indicated.
Dy CM Shivakumar added, “I harbor no political or personal grievances with anyone. As the state party President, I uphold a position of fairness, treating everyone equally. I will execute my duties with care. Please disregard rumors of rebellion or leaders convening behind closed doors.”
“I am dedicated to my responsibilities towards the high command, safeguarding party workers, and enhancing the party’s strength. My responsibility is to maintain the government’s stability. Kindly refrain from associating my name with any controversies. I have no conflicts with anyone in the party,” Dy CM Shivakumar urged.
Addressing the rumors of infighting, Shivakumar stated, “All of this is false and baseless. Someone has misled the media. I have noticed that some television channels are disseminating misinformation.”
“For example, during my visit with a senior politician, it was misrepresented as a meeting arising from a dispute. Firoz Sait, a senior leader from Belagavi, has collaborated with me previously. We met with him and the Belagavi District President, yet false narratives were spun. Do not harm the media’s credibility with fabricated stories.”
In response to being designated as a star campaigner by the national Congress in New Delhi, Shivakumar stated, “I am aware of this. I had initiated the Rs 2,500 per month ‘Pyari Didi’ scheme in New Delhi. I will be visiting and engaging in campaigning there.”
Addressing the omission of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s name from the star campaigners list, despite the inclusion of other Congress CMs, Shivakumar clarified, “Our CM is currently occupied with preparing the state budget. He must conduct meetings with department heads and ministers and focus on these responsibilities. Therefore, the AICC has granted him time to concentrate on this.”
When asked about BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil’s assertion that 60 Congress MLAs are poised to switch to the BJP, Shivakumar declined to comment, stating, “Please refrain from asking me about individuals engaged in unscrupulous politics. We are organizing a national event, and you are introducing irrelevant questions.”
Discussing the Belagavi convention, Shivakumar said, “I have maintained communication with all national leaders. Approximately 60 leaders, including 20 working committee members, PCC members, and Members of Parliament, are set to arrive in Karnataka. Most MLAs and MLCs from Karnataka will also participate.”
“Our senior leaders are also expected to attend. Events postponed following the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will now take place. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi from Wayanad will also be present, and her schedule has already been confirmed. All arrangements are in place,” he concluded.
“The ‘Jai Bhim, Jai Bapu, Jai Samvidhan’ convention is organized to honor Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and to protect the Constitution. The primary aim of this program is to promote the ideals of social justice championed by Mahatma Gandhi and Babasaheb Ambedkar,” he added.
