Power Struggle Between Karnataka CM and Deputy CM Intensifies Over Engineer Transfers

Conflict Between Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister

The ongoing conflict between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has resurfaced, particularly concerning the transfer of five senior engineers. This situation exemplifies the escalating power struggle between the two influential leaders in the state. Reports indicate that Shivakumar, who oversees the Water Resources Department, sent a formal letter to Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, demanding the immediate withdrawal of transfer orders issued by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR) under the Chief Minister's authority. On May 9, engineers from the Public Works Department (PWD) were reassigned to key positions within the Water Resources Department, including divisions handling interstate water disputes, Neeravari irrigation projects, the politically sensitive Yettinahole project, the Command Area Development Authority (CADA), and the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation.

Reasons Behind Shivakumar's Intervention

Shivakumar's intervention was prompted not only by the transfers themselves but also by the manner in which they were executed without his consent. In a written note dated May 13, he reminded the Chief Secretary of a fundamental agreement established when the Congress government was formed: any transfer or appointment related to his department must receive his explicit approval. He pointed out that these transfers were made without consulting the responsible minister, arguing that such actions violate protocol and undermine the minister's authority.

Details of the Transferred Engineers

Among those transferred is B.H. Manjunath, currently stationed at the Police Housing Corporation, who is set to retire on May 31. The DPAR's orders instructed the new engineer to report to the vacant position immediately. While Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has not publicly commented on the latest directive, political circles view this development as another chapter in the ongoing cold war between the two leaders, both eager to assert control over their administrative domains.

History of Bureaucratic Conflicts

This is not the first instance of conflict between the two regarding bureaucratic matters. Previous disagreements have arisen over budget allocations, cabinet portfolios, and appointments to boards and corporations. Although often concealed in public statements, the tension is becoming increasingly difficult to mask. Observers within the Congress party believe that the leadership structure in Karnataka—where both the CM and DCM are prominent leaders with aspirations for the chief ministership—has frequently led to clashes, particularly concerning high-stakes departments like Bengaluru development, water resources, and public works.