Why Did Siddaramaiah Lose His Cool Over Shivakumar Supporters?
Synopsis
In a dramatic episode during a protest rally, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confronted supporters of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar who were chanting his name, highlighting the internal strife within the Congress party. As tensions rose, both leaders displayed camaraderie despite the evident rivalry.
Key Takeaways
Siddaramaiah confronted Shivakumar's supporters during a protest rally.
The rally condemned the scrapping of the MGNREGA Act .
A video of the confrontation has gone viral on social media.
Internal conflicts within the Congress party are intensifying.
Both leaders are expected to follow the high command's directives.
Bengaluru, Jan 27 (NationPress) During the ongoing power struggle within the Congress party, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his frustration when chants supporting Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar were heard at a protest rally against the Centre's decision to abolish the MGNREGA Act.
Shivakumar's supporters began their chants just as Siddaramaiah took the stage to speak. As he approached the microphone, the crowd chanted “DK, DK,” prompting the Chief Minister to lose his composure and request silence from the supporters.
As the chants grew louder, Siddaramaiah sternly questioned the identity of those shouting “DK, DK.” The program's convener also urged the audience to cease the chanting, acknowledging the source of the slogans.
This dramatic incident occurred in front of AICC General Secretary and Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala.
A video of the confrontation has circulated widely on social media, igniting discussions among the supporters of both leaders.
However, the atmosphere was not entirely hostile, as Siddaramaiah assisted Shivakumar in donning a ceremonial headgear during the event.
Former Congress member Rohan Gupta, now with the BJP, criticized the Congress, stating, “The Congress stage in Bengaluru has once again transformed into a battleground over power.”
“Before Siddaramaiah could begin his address, chants for D.K. Shivakumar resonated throughout the venue, compelling the Chief Minister to utilize the microphone to quiet the crowd. This situation highlights an internal power struggle rather than a genuine public movement focused on development or the interests of the people,” he remarked.
“This internal discord is driving the Congress toward its own demise,” Gupta added.
The leadership conflict within the ruling Congress is escalating, with the high command likely to convene discussions with Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar after the Shivarathri festival. Both leaders have asserted their commitment to follow the high command's directives.
Point of View
Revealing the challenges they face in maintaining unity amidst leadership struggles. It highlights the need for the party to address these issues constructively to avoid further fragmentation.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Siddaramaiah to lose his temper?
Siddaramaiah lost his temper due to chants in favor of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar during a protest rally.
What was the protest rally about?
The protest rally was organized to condemn the scrapping of the MGNREGA Act by the Central government.
Who was present during the incident?
AICC General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala was present during the incident.
What did former Congress leader Rohan Gupta say?
Rohan Gupta criticized the Congress party, characterizing the event as a power struggle rather than a genuine public movement.
What is the expected next step for the Congress leadership?
The high command is expected to call both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for discussions after the Shivarathri festival.
