Shivakumar Compares Relationship with Siddaramaiah to Milk and Honey Amid Karnataka Leadership Dispute
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Bengaluru, Mar 3 (NationPress) In the midst of the ongoing leadership conflict in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar highlighted the importance of cohesion within the Congress party, likening his relationship with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to milk and honey.
During a press conference in Bengaluru, Shivakumar praised Siddaramaiah for addressing the phone tapping allegations made by opposition leaders, stating that the Chief Minister spoke from a place of experience and has closely observed his journey.
"Our connection is undoubtedly akin to milk and honey. Time will reveal everything," Shivakumar remarked.
Further clarifying his position regarding the Chief Minister's role, he mentioned that he has not engaged in discussions about it so far.
In addition, Shivakumar announced plans to host a dinner on March 10 to celebrate six years as the President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee.
On the subject of his ongoing leadership as KPCC president, he expressed that new leadership should arise.
Responding to allegations from Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy regarding phone tapping, Shivakumar maintained that he has never expressed intentions to undermine the leadership and reaffirmed the need for unity within the Congress party.
He pointed out that the Congress has 175 MLAs and MLCs and questioned the narrative surrounding leadership transitions. Indirectly referencing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he asked, "Did Modi Saheb not become Prime Minister? Did he not achieve that position without any state background?"
Regarding potential changes in the Legislative Council Chairman, he stated that he would discuss this with the Chief Minister.
Siddaramaiah defended himself on Tuesday, dismissing claims made by Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy and Opposition Leader R. Ashoka about phone tapping aimed at monitoring Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar. He labeled these claims as groundless and politically motivated.
He alleged that since the Congress regained power in the state, opposition leaders have sought to instigate disagreement between him and Shivakumar.
"Despite their attempts to create discord, it won't affect the harmonious relationship we share," Siddaramaiah affirmed, emphasizing their mutual commitment to the party's leadership.