Karnataka Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar Addresses Party Dynamics and Leadership Speculations

Shivakumar Discusses Party Strengthening with Congress President

D.K. Shivakumar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, stated that his recent discussions with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge were aimed at reinforcing both the party and governance. He dismissed rumors regarding power struggles within the Karnataka Congress. Furthermore, Shivakumar mentioned that he would be willing to travel to Delhi if invited by senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

According to party insiders, Kharge met with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar amidst renewed speculation regarding state leadership issues.

Sources indicate that Kharge traveled from Thiruvananthapuram to Bengaluru with Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar, and other senior leaders. Later on Monday, they convened at the residence of state Energy Minister K.J. George. Reports of a power struggle between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have surfaced repeatedly over the past few months, particularly after the Congress government marked its two-and-a-half-year milestone last November, intensifying discussions around power-sharing.

As per Congress sources, an informal meeting took place at George's residence shortly after their return from Kerala, where they attended the swearing-in ceremony of the new Congress government. Shivakumar told reporters that while there were speculations about leadership issues, the focus was on strategies to strengthen the party and regain power. When questioned about internal discussions during his meeting with Kharge and Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar remarked that various narratives were being circulated, emphasizing that their conversation revolved around politics and governance.

Responding to inquiries about a potential invitation from Rahul Gandhi to visit Delhi, Shivakumar affirmed that he would attend if invited, stating that he expects to receive a call by the end of the month. He also refuted any discussions regarding the removal of Siddaramaiah, in response to comments made by Congress MLA K.N. Rajanna suggesting that if leadership changes occur, Home Minister G. Parameshwara should be appointed as Chief Minister.