Karnataka: Shivakumar Dismisses Power-Sharing Talks, Pledges Unity Under Siddaramaiah
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Synopsis
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has dismissed rumors of power-sharing with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, asserting unity within the party. He emphasized adherence to the party's decisions and the leadership of Siddaramaiah while responding to media inquiries in Hubballi.
Key Takeaways
- Shivakumar rules out power-sharing claims.
- Entire party united under Siddaramaiah's leadership.
- Shivakumar stresses party commitment to public mandates.
- High command instructed leaders to maintain silence on specific issues.
- Shivakumar remains State Party President amid rumors.
Hubballi, Jan 17 (NationPress) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has decisively put to rest the ongoing speculations regarding a potential power-sharing arrangement with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, stating firmly that there is no prospect of power-sharing in the state.
While addressing the media in Hubballi, Shivakumar asserted that the entire party will operate under the guidance of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
Previously, members from Shivakumar’s faction had suggested that a power-sharing deal existed, allowing for an equal division of the Chief Minister's tenure.
Responding emphatically to inquiries about power-sharing, Shivakumar remarked: “There is no question of power-sharing. Where is this power-sharing? We have not discussed it at all. There is absolutely no dialogue about power-sharing. Whatever the party decides, we will adhere to. Who even brought up power-sharing? Have I ever indicated anything about it?”
“Some might speculate on this, but I refuse to engage in any discussions. We are all party members. The people of Karnataka have endorsed us, and we have made five commitments to them. The BJP is preoccupied with us because their own situation is chaotic. They lack order in their own ranks, hence they attempt to disseminate false information,” Shivakumar commented.
“Power-sharing is not on the table. The entire party will align under the leadership of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Congress President Kharge has entrusted us with this duty, and we will execute whatever tasks are assigned by the higher authority,” Shivakumar emphasized.
He noted that the party's high command has directed all leaders, including himself, to remain discreet on certain topics.
“I am not inclined to respond to all your inquiries. Mallikarjun Kharge is our President, and under his supervision, we will work diligently for the party,” he stated.
When questioned about rumors of 30 Congress MLAs traveling to Dubai led by PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi, Shivakumar expressed that he was unaware of any such occurrence.
This is Shivakumar's first public statement regarding the power-sharing matter since the Congress government assumed office in the state. Shivakumar was a prominent candidate for the Chief Minister's role. Rahul Gandhi had previously mentioned that whoever garnered the backing of the most MLAs would become the Chief Minister. Following the Congress party's significant electoral victory, Siddaramaiah was inaugurated as Chief Minister for the second time.
However, after requests from Siddaramaiah’s faction for the establishment of additional Deputy Chief Minister roles and the replacement of Shivakumar as State Party President, Shivakumar’s supporters began promoting him as the prospective Chief Minister. The discord within the party intensified with the organization of factional dinner events, prompting intervention from the high command to halt these gatherings.
AICC General Secretary and Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala recently dismissed any alterations in the state party’s leadership, affirming that D.K. Shivakumar will retain his position as State Party President.
