DK Shivakumar on Karnataka Leadership Row: "Congress Is My Community"

Shivakumar emphasized that Congress is his community and he views all communities in Karnataka equally.

Bengaluru:

Amidst ongoing discussions regarding Congress leadership in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar reiterated on Friday that he is not rushing any decisions and will respect the party high command's verdict on the Chief Minister position.

When questioned about his meeting with Vokkaliga community spiritual leader Nanjavadutha Swamiji during this power tussle, Shivakumar clarified that Congress represents his community and he treats all communities across the state with equal regard.

"I don't desire anything. I'm not hurrying any process. My party will make the appropriate decision. I reject any community-based angles. Congress is my community, and my affection extends to all sections of society," the Deputy Chief Minister told reporters.

While rumors circulate about the Congress high command meeting to determine the CM position, Shivakumar stated that his Delhi visit would focus on addressing Karnataka's farmer issues before the Parliament's Winter Session.

He elaborated, "I will certainly visit Delhi. It's our temple. Congress has extensive history, and Delhi always provides guidance. When they summon me, the party leaders and CM, we will go. I have substantial work in Delhi. The Parliament Winter Session is approaching, and I need to meet Parliamentarians because they must advance some of our projects. My CM is discussing issues with the Centre. There's the maize issue - the central government isn't supporting farmers. We've decided to arrange a meeting with factory owners. We request Delhi's intervention to purchase it."

The leadership discussion in Karnataka emerged after the Congress government completed half of its tenure in November.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge dismissed rumors about leadership changes in the state, affirming that Congress remains unified and will continue to be so.

Following his meeting with Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, he explained that the meeting was related to an administrative matter.

Speaking to reporters, Priyank Kharge stated, "When facing administrative problems, I consult my CM and DCM. I needed clarification regarding urban body matters. That's why I came. If I meet Kharge tomorrow, you'll question what political matters we discussed. Such unnecessary speculation isn't helpful. What did the CM say? High command. So where's this ambiguity originating? The ambiguity exists only in media and BJP circles, not among the public or within Congress."

Additionally, Priyank Kharge downplayed these reports, urging media outlets to avoid speculations. He confirmed that both the Chief Minister and DCM have stated they would respond if summoned by the high command.

"I'm uncertain about the source of this information. Everyone has stated that if our in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala or the AICC president calls, they will attend. The Chief Minister and DCM have already confirmed they'll go if summoned by the high command. Let them call, and we'll proceed accordingly. The high command will evaluate timing and circumstances before deciding. This isn't unusual. The party has functioned for 130 years. Whenever intervention becomes necessary, they will act."