Bengaluru, February 13 – Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar addressed the ongoing leadership tussle within the Congress party, emphasizing his unwavering faith in hope and hard work. Speaking to reporters at the Indian Institute of Science and later in Tiptur, Shivakumar declared, ‘I have always won on hope. Where there is effort, there is reward. Where there is devotion, there is divine grace.’
His remarks come amid speculation about power-sharing arrangements between him and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The party high command has summoned both leaders to Delhi on February 17 for discussions on the matter. When asked about the summons, Shivakumar maintained a composed stance, saying, ‘I am not aware of it. Time will tell.’
On Home Minister G Parameshwara’s reported demand for clarification from the high command on power-sharing, Shivakumar responded graciously, ‘I wish him well.’ Regarding rumors of lawmakers planning a foreign study tour, he clarified, ‘I have not sought any report on this. Those going abroad haven’t consulted me, and I haven’t discussed it with the high command.’
Reaffirming his commitment to party discipline, Shivakumar stated, ‘Whatever the party says, I will follow. I won’t interfere in other matters. If legislators raise issues, the high command and Chief Minister will handle them. My duty is to remain a disciplined soldier of the party and government.’
Shivakumar also touched upon the government’s milestone of completing 1,000 days in office. He highlighted a recent land guarantee scheme event in Haveri and his annual visit to Rishi Ajayya Mutt for the fair. Earlier in the day, he met World Bank officials, inspected rural water supply systems and the KRS Dam, praising security measures there. He directed officials to prepare proposals for funding on water supply, stormwater drains, and other projects, confident of international support.
As tensions simmer in Karnataka politics, Shivakumar’s measured words signal a leader prioritizing unity over discord, setting the stage for crucial high command deliberations.