Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday chose to downplay the recent political chatter surrounding slogans raised in his favour, stating such chants were a decade-old routine and should not be over-analysed.
'DK, DK' Slogans Are a Decade-Old Tradition: Shivakumar
Addressing reporters, the Congress stalwart responded to queries about the "DK, DK" slogans heard at Mangaluru International Airport during the arrival of AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal. He framed the incident as part of normal political fervour. "What's wrong with sloganeering?" Shivakumar questioned. He emphasised that these specific slogans have been raised for the past 10 years and there was nothing novel about them. "People should take it in a sporting way," he advised.
Congress Projects Unity Amidst Political Speculation
The airport episode occurred against a backdrop of heightened political activity in Karnataka. It came just days after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar held their second "unity breakfast," an event designed to showcase harmony within the state Congress leadership ahead of the upcoming assembly session. Reiterating the party high command's narrative, Shivakumar firmly stated, "We are all working together. There is no division. The government is united."
Shivakumar further contextualised the sloganeering by pointing out that supporters across all political parties routinely raise slogans for various leaders, including CM Siddaramaiah and even Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He indicated that such displays of support were commonplace during political gatherings and events.
Delhi Visit and Congress Protest Plans Confirmed
On his immediate plans, the Deputy Chief Minister confirmed he would leave for Delhi on Wednesday evening. The visit is for a private function and to participate in the Congress party's nationwide "vote chori" protest scheduled for December 14.
Outlining the preparations for the protest, Shivakumar shared, "I have taken 300 people from each district. All ministers, MLAs and district leaders have been told to take responsibility." He also revealed that logistical arrangements have been coordinated with the Railway Minister to facilitate the travel of participants from Karnataka to the national capital.
By brushing aside the slogan controversy and highlighting collective action for the upcoming protest, Shivakumar's statements aimed to reinforce a public image of a cohesive Congress leadership in Karnataka, focusing on coordinated political strategy rather than internal dynamics.
