Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar performed a traditional ‘baagina’ ritual at the brimming Kabini River in Mysuru, projecting unity following speculation of discord within the Congress leadership. The gesture came a day after a controversy at the Congress’ ‘sadhana samavesha’ event in Mysuru, where Siddaramaiah’s omission of Shivakumar’s name while acknowledging dignitaries sparked criticism.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) labeled the omission an “insult” to Shivakumar, who had left the event early for a Delhi trip, fueling rumors of a rift. Siddaramaiah dismissed the BJP’s claims as “political mischief,” explaining to reporters, “Shivakumar informed us he was leaving for Delhi. Protocol requires acknowledging only those present. The BJP is trying to find pebbles in the curd.” He added, “They’re deluded, dreaming of political mileage.”

Shivakumar downplayed the incident, saying, “The BJP seems to have too much love for me. I had urgent work in Delhi, informed the Chief Minister, and returned the same night.” He clarified his Delhi visit was for a legal appointment, not political, and mentioned a minor convoy accident, adding, “By the grace of Goddess Chamundeshwari, no harm was done.”

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The episode follows Siddaramaiah’s recent assertion that he will complete his five-year term as Chief Minister, denying any agreement to step down for Shivakumar in November. “There is no power struggle between us,” he had stated, quashing succession rumors. The joint ritual at the Kabini, a Cauvery tributary, underscores their effort to present a united front amid ongoing political speculation.

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