Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar Visits Delhi Amid Chief Minister Rotation Controversy

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar is traveling to Delhi today amidst ongoing tensions regarding the rotation of the Chief Minister position in the state. While reports suggested that the Central leadership had summoned him to address the matter, Shivakumar told NDTV this was merely a "personal visit."

Bengaluru:

Before boarding his flight from Bengaluru's Kempegowda airport, Shivakumar explained, "I'm attending a marriage of my friend's children, who is a bureaucrat. Additionally, we have a rally on the 14th and need to arrange accommodations for approximately 10,000 party leaders and cadres planning to travel from Karnataka."

He further elaborated, "I need to make certain arrangements and delegate responsibilities to some party leaders to ensure everyone enjoys a comfortable stay, especially those traveling by train."

When questioned about potential meetings with the party's central leadership while in Delhi, Shivakumar responded, "I don't think that will be possible. Many of them are occupied with parliament preparations, and I wouldn't want to disturb them at this time."

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah dismissed inquiries about Shivakumar's trip, stating, "Let him go. Who said not to go? I will only go if I'm called."

In the ongoing controversy over the Chief Minister position that has dominated headlines, Siddaramaiah maintains a strong advantage with support from approximately 110 Congress MLAs.

Shivakumar's supporters claim that during government formation, he was promised a rotational arrangement where he would assume the Chief Minister role during the second half of the government's term, as he had initially been a contender for the position.

However, Siddaramaiah has been reluctant to implement this change, arguing that a leadership transition would disrupt governance momentum.

Two breakfast meetings between the leaders within a four-day period failed to resolve the standoff.

The Congress high command has remained silent on the matter. Party President Mallikarjun Kharge indicated that Rahul Gandhi and other senior leaders would resolve the issue.

Sources informed NDTV that Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are scheduled to meet on December 8, preceded by consultations with senior Congress leader KC Venugopal.

Siddaramaiah has pledged to honor the decision of the Central leadership, stating, "Both of us will accept the party's decision, especially that of Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Mallikarjun Kharge."