Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar took a sharp jab at BJP leader K Annamalai, calling him a "poor man" from his state who understands the formidable strength of the Congress in Karnataka.

Speaking to the press outside Chennai airport on March 22, 2025, Shivakumar exuded confidence as he arrived to attend a crucial delimitation meeting hosted by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin. His remarks came amid escalating political tensions, with Shivakumar brushing off the BJP's tactics as ineffective against the Congress' resilience.

"I welcome all the BJP black flags," Shivakumar declared, referencing protests by BJP supporters. "I was not afraid when they sent me to Tihar Jail." His defiance underscored his unwavering resolve, framing past challenges as proof of his strength.

Turning his attention to Annamalai, a Tamil Nadu BJP leader and former Karnataka cadre IPS officer, Shivakumar added, "This officer, poor man, he is from my state, he has served us, he knows our strength. Let us do our job, I wish him all the best." The statement subtly mocked Annamalai while signaling Congress' dominance in Karnataka.

The delimitation meeting brought together leaders from Punjab, Telangana, and Kerala, highlighting a united front against the BJP. "Joining together is the beginning, discussing together is progress, working together is success," Shivakumar emphasized, stressing the importance of opposition unity.

He reiterated that the stakes were high: "At any cost, we can’t let down our country and our seats." As political battle lines sharpen ahead of future elections, Shivakumar’s words reflect both a personal triumph and a broader call to action for the opposition alliance.