Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed displeasure over slogan-shouting by party workers during the Congress “Sankalp Samavesh” programme in Bengaluru and halted his speech midway after supporters repeatedly raised slogans in favour of Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.
The incident occurred during the party event attended by several senior leaders of the Karnataka government and the Congress organisation. The programme was organised to discuss organisational strengthening, the government’s achievements and future political strategies.
According to eyewitnesses, while Kharge was addressing party workers from the stage, a group of supporters positioned near the front repeatedly shouted “DK-DK” slogans in support of D.K. Shivakumar. Appearing uncomfortable with the continued slogan-shouting, Kharge interrupted his speech and reminded workers that the event was an official Congress programme and not a platform dedicated to any individual leader.
He said the identity of the party is defined not by a single individual but by the collective strength and ideology of the organisation. Kharge stated that the success of any political party depends on its organisational structure and the unity of its workers. He urged party members to focus on the collective objectives of the Congress rather than demonstrating support for individual leaders.
The Congress president said the party is a national organisation that has played an important role in strengthening democratic values and institutions over several decades. He added that maintaining discipline at public events is the responsibility of every party worker.
Kharge also said that political strength is not enhanced through slogan-shouting alone and that a leader’s true identity is shaped by work carried out among the public and commitment to the organisation.
Referring to his political career, Kharge said he has nearly six decades of experience in public life and politics. He noted that the Congress has provided opportunities to many leaders over the years and that several individuals have gained national recognition through the party platform.
He emphasised that the strength of the Congress lies in its collective leadership and organisational culture and said no individual can be considered above the organisation.
Warning workers against indiscipline, Kharge said the entire programme was being recorded and that individuals responsible for violating party discipline could be identified. He indicated that the organisation would not hesitate to take necessary action in cases of indiscipline.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar was also present on the stage during the incident. As the slogan-shouting intensified, he appealed to party workers to remain calm and allow the programme to proceed in an orderly manner. His intervention was aimed at controlling the situation and maintaining the decorum of the event.
