Internal strife intensifies within the Karnataka Congress. Deputy CM DK Shivakumar has refused to relinquish his post as state president and has demanded a guarantee of the Chief Minister's position from the high command.
Karnataka Politics: Internal conflict has resurfaced within the Karnataka Congress. Deputy CM DK Shivakumar has flatly refused to resign from his post as the party's state president. The CM Siddaramaiah faction argues that the "one person-one post" policy should be implemented, but Shivakumar maintains that he will not relinquish the presidency until he is guaranteed the Chief Minister's position.
Temporary Relief from the High Command
During his visit to Delhi, DK Shivakumar clearly stated to the Congress high command that he would remain state president until he is assured of being appointed to the Chief Ministerial post in the future. According to sources, the party leadership has currently supported Shivakumar and clarified that no changes will be made until the district and taluk panchayat elections are over.
Warning to the Siddaramaiah Faction
Sources indicate that the Congress high command has sent a message to Siddaramaiah and supporting ministers that no changes will be made to the state leadership for the time being. This means that DK Shivakumar will continue to hold both the positions of Deputy CM and state president.
Sharp Attack on BJP over Inflation
DK Shivakumar retaliated against the BJP's anti-inflation protests, stating that "the BJP is the mother of inflation". He defended the decision to increase milk prices, arguing that it would benefit farmers.
Demand for a Meeting on Krishna River Water Dispute
During his Delhi visit, Shivakumar met with the Irrigation and Civil Aviation Ministers. He demanded a joint meeting between Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka to resolve the Krishna River water dispute. Regarding the Cauvery water dispute, he stated that Tamil Nadu is not cooperating, leaving only the legal route as an option.
BJP Protests Against the Congress Government
On April 3rd, the Karnataka BJP staged a b protest against the Congress government over the increase in milk, diesel, petrol prices, and taxes. Senior leaders like R. Ashok and C.T. Ravi led the protest in Bengaluru, criticizing the government's economic policies as anti-people.