Amidst swirling rumors of a leadership crisis and internal strife within the Karnataka Congress, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar held a joint press conference to unequivocally dismiss all such reports. Addressing the media in Bengaluru, both leaders emphasized the complete unity within the party and their unwavering commitment to the high command's decisions. This joint appearance comes at a crucial time when various media outlets and opposition parties have been speculating about a potential split or discord within the ruling Congress in the state.
Dismissing Reports of Differences
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah categorically stated that there are no differences between him and D. K. Shivakumar, and there will be none in the future. He stressed that the party's primary agenda is to bring Congress back to power in the 2028 assembly elections. Siddaramaiah also mentioned that they discussed strategies for the local body elections, which are equally important to them. He asserted, "We both will fight the elections together. There is no confusion between us, and there will be none in the future. " This statement is crucial for sending a message of unity to party workers and the public alike, dispelling any notions of internal conflict.
Commitment to High Command's Decisions
Both leaders unanimously agreed that they would abide by any decision taken by the party's high command. Siddaramaiah stated, "We've decided that whatever the high command says, we will accept it. There will be no confusion from tomorrow. In fact, there isn't any even now. " This declaration underscores the discipline within the party and the loyalty towards the central leadership. D. K. Shivakumar echoed this sentiment, affirming that they would fully comply with the high command's directives and that there is no factionalism within the Karnataka Congress, while he reiterated that they're still working together and that he supports all statements made by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, showcasing a united front.
Rebutting Opposition's Claims
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also dismissed the false accusations made by the BJP and JDS, along with their threats to bring a no-confidence motion. He highlighted that the BJP has only 60 MLAs, and the JDS has merely 18, whereas the Congress commands a strong majority with 140 MLAs, while he declared, "They won't be able to match our numbers. Their claims and efforts are hollow. " This statement sends a clear message to the opposition that the Congress government is in a strong position and capable of facing any challenge, while d. K. Shivakumar also commented on the no-confidence motion, stating, "Let the BJP do it, we're capable of running the assembly and the government. " This confidence reflects the party's internal cohesion and the stability of the government.
Reason for MLAs' Delhi Visits
Addressing reports of some MLAs visiting the high command in Delhi, Siddaramaiah provided clarification. He stated that, to his knowledge, some MLAs aspire to become ministers, and that's likely why they went to meet the central leadership in Delhi. He emphasized that this by no means indicates they're against the leadership, while siddaramaiah mentioned that he had spoken to some of these MLAs, who explained their reasons for visiting Delhi. This clarification aims to quell speculations linking these meetings to discontent within the party, framing them instead as legitimate political aspirations.
D. K.
Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar declared himself a "loyal soldier" of the Congress party, expressing his unwavering allegiance. He stated, "With all your help, we brought the Congress government to power and are working according to our promises. The people of Karnataka are giving their full support. We've to live up to their expectations. We're working in that direction. " He further added that as far as leadership is concerned, they would obey the party high command, while shivakumar also stressed that the party is going through a difficult phase in the country, but he's confident that Karnataka will play a significant role. He pledged to form the government again in 2028 and perform well in 2029 under the leadership of Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi. This statement underscores his commitment to the national leadership and his vision for the future of Congress in Karnataka.
