In Karnataka, the longstanding power tussle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has reemerged, with Shivakumar’s supporters openly expressing their desire to see him assume the role of Chief Minister, even though a power-sharing agreement had been reached. The Congress party had devised a rotational formula that stipulated Siddaramaiah’s tenure as Chief Minister for 2.5 years, after which DK Shivakumar would take over.
However, several months after this formula was established, the vocal wishes of Shivakumar’s supporters have reignited the political rivalry. When asked about the prospect of him becoming the Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar commented, “We have been granted power for five years. The party leadership will decide when they deem it appropriate. I’m not concerned about it. People have their own desires, it’s their opinion. Our priority is to provide good governance.”
In Belagavi, Karnataka, Vijayanand Kashappanavar, an MLA and supporter of Shivakumar, expressed his optimism about Shivakumar’s future as Chief Minister. He stated, “In today’s event, our beloved leader DK Shivakumar was honored, which has enhanced the reputation of the entire north Karnataka region. Our current Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar, will undoubtedly ascend to the position of Chief Minister in the state, as I am expressing my aspiration.”
Meanwhile, DK Shivakumar has been vigilant about potential efforts to destabilize the government. He revealed that he is aware of a team within the BJP working to undermine the government. Congress legislators have been informing him and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah about who is approaching them and what incentives are being offered. Shivakumar intends to disclose this information during the next Assembly session.
“We are aware of it. All MLAs are providing me and the Chief Minister with comprehensive information about who is meeting them and what is being offered to them,” Shivakumar stated.
The power struggle and vocal expressions of support for Shivakumar reveal ongoing tensions within the Congress party in Karnataka. Despite the agreed-upon rotational formula, it seems that some of Shivakumar’s loyalists are eager to see him assume the role of Chief Minister at an earlier juncture.
Such dynamics within the party can impact the stability and functioning of the government, especially when rival factions or differing power centers exist within the same political organization. The situation also underscores the importance of leadership and party discipline in managing internal conflicts and maintaining a united front.