DK Shivakumar’s Cryptic Jab at Karnataka Power-Sharing Rift

At a Congress event titled "Constitutional Challenges" hosted by the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in Delhi, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar made pointed remarks about power-sharing in politics, seemingly referencing tensions with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. While praising the Gandhi family’s legacy, Shivakumar highlighted his decades-long loyalty to Congress and his pivotal role in securing the party’s victory in Karnataka’s 2023 assembly elections.

Shivakumar lauded Sonia Gandhi’s 2004 decision to forgo the Prime Minister’s post, allowing Dr. Manmohan Singh, a Sikh and economist, to lead. “When Sonia Gandhi was asked by the President to take oath as Prime Minister, she said, ‘For me, power is not important.’ She chose a minority leader to save the country,” he said, describing it as an unmatched sacrifice in Indian politics. He added, “Does anyone sacrifice even a small position today? At the panchayat level, many don’t. Some MLAs and ministers share power, but some of us don’t even agree to share power.”

Though Shivakumar named no one, his comments come amid ongoing speculation about a power-sharing agreement with Siddaramaiah, who has firmly denied such a deal, asserting he will complete his full five-year term as Chief Minister. The remarks have reignited discussions about internal dynamics within Karnataka’s Congress leadership, with Shivakumar seen as a contender for the top post. His emphasis on his contributions—strengthening Congress in Karnataka and navigating coalition politics—underscored his ambition and influence. The event, attended by senior Congress leaders, also highlighted the party’s focus on constitutional values amid national political debates.

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