Karnataka's political landscape is buzzing with activity as Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar made significant statements regarding the speculated cabinet reshuffle in the state. The developments come amid several Congress legislators from Shivakumar's camp meeting the party's high command in Delhi.
Political Maneuvering in Karnataka
On Thursday, multiple Congress MLAs considered to be part of Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar's political lobby traveled to Delhi to meet with the party's top leadership. This movement occurred against the backdrop of strong rumors about an impending cabinet reshuffle in Karnataka, particularly as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah completes two-and-a-half years in office.
The timing of these meetings has sparked discussions about a reported power-sharing agreement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, though both leaders have maintained public unity. The political circles are closely watching these developments as they could signal significant changes in the state's administration.
Shivakumar's Firm Stance
Addressing reporters about the ongoing political activities, DK Shivakumar made his position clear with a powerful statement. "Making a group is not in my blood. All 140 MLAs are my MLAs," the Deputy Chief Minister asserted, dismissing notions of factionalism within the party.
Shivakumar explained that the Chief Minister's decision to reshuffle the cabinet has naturally sparked interest among legislators aspiring for ministerial positions. "The CM decided that he will reshuffle the government cabinet. So, all of them are interested in becoming ministers. It is natural that they will go and meet the leaders in Delhi," he stated.
Voluntary Meetings Defended
The Deputy Chief Minister strongly defended the MLAs' decision to meet party leaders in the national capital, emphasizing their democratic rights. "I have not taken anyone. Some of them went and met Kharge sahab. They met the CM also. What is wrong? It is their life," Shivakumar told journalists.
He clarified that the legislators were acting independently rather than being summoned by party leadership. "No one has called them, they are voluntarily going and showing their faces. They wanted to show their presence that they are in the forefront, can work and they want responsibility," the Deputy CM elaborated.
Shivakumar further emphasized that all party members have the eligibility to meet their leaders, noting that similar movements occur when ministers or the Chief Minister travel to Delhi. "You can't stop them, you can't tell them no, because so many are going with ministers. Some of them are going with the CM. Who will stop them? No one will stop them," he concluded.
The political developments come ahead of Shivakumar's scheduled meeting with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday, which is expected to provide more clarity on the cabinet reshuffle and the party's strategy moving forward.
