Congress MLA Overseas Tour Sparks Internal Rift in Karnataka Leadership
A proposed overseas tour by a group of Congress legislators has significantly deepened internal divisions within the party in Karnataka, with camps led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar openly sparring over the issue. This controversy emerges against the backdrop of an ongoing tussle over the chief minister's post, adding fuel to political tensions.
Details of the Proposed Trip
Former minister and Chamarajanagar MLA C Puttaranga Shetty revealed that approximately 25 to 35 MLAs, along with their family members, are planning a trip to Australia and New Zealand scheduled between February 16 and March 3. The animal husbandry department is reportedly underwriting the expenses for this journey. Shetty confirmed that 13 MLAs, including Animal Husbandry and Sericulture Minister K Venkatesh, had applied for no-objection certificates (NOCs) from the legislative assembly secretary to obtain visas.
MK Vishalakshi, the assembly secretary, stated, "It is a routine procedure. We have issued NOCs to those who applied," indicating formal approval for the travel documents.
Political Speculation and Leadership Dynamics
The proposed trip has led to widespread speculation that Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar is stepping up pressure on the party high command to honor a reported pact. According to this alleged agreement, Shivakumar would take over as chief minister halfway through the government's five-year term. Some political observers suggest he is planning to take a large group of MLAs abroad to demonstrate his clout and consolidate support within the party.
However, those aligned with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's camp argue that MLAs supporting him are also part of the touring group, attempting to downplay the narrative of a Shivakumar-led faction. Meanwhile, supporters of Shivakumar claim that the central party brass refused permission for the tour, with AICC general secretary Randeep Surjewala reportedly warning against it.
Denials and Downplaying of the Controversy
DK Suresh, Shivakumar's brother and a former MP, firmly rejected suggestions that the deputy chief minister was involved in organizing the trip. He stated, "Who is going? Why unnecessarily blame Shivakumar for this? I can only clarify that Shivakumar has nothing to do with it," seeking to distance the leader from the controversy.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also sought to play down the tour, commenting, "If MLAs and MLCs plan to go on a foreign trip at their own expense, can we say no?" However, when asked if he was aware of the specific tour, he admitted, "No, I'm not aware of it."
AS Ponnanna, an MLA and Siddaramaiah's legal adviser, echoed this sentiment, describing the trip as a "personal affair." He emphasized, "MLAs are free to go on a trip with their families, and it is their personal affair. It is not proper to drag the CM into it."
Broader Political Context and Criticisms
Critics have raised concerns that the trip could amount to a taxpayer-funded junket, questioning the use of public money for such excursions. This allegation adds a layer of public accountability to the internal political strife.
Amidst this turmoil, Siddaramaiah addressed queries regarding the state budget, announcing, "I will announce the presentation date after Shivaratri (Feb 15)." He is currently engaged in a series of pre-budget meetings with various departments, focusing on governance amidst the political distractions.
Intensifying Speculation Over Leadership Change
Speculation about a possible change in the chief minister's position began after the government crossed the halfway mark of its five-year term on November 20 last year. This speculation has intensified recently, with reports suggesting that a leadership transition could occur after Siddaramaiah presents his record 17th budget in the first week of March. The overseas tour controversy is seen as a microcosm of the larger power struggle within the Karnataka Congress, highlighting deep-seated divisions and strategic maneuvering ahead of potential political shifts.
