Bengaluru: During his visit to the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, accompanied by his family, participated in a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam. This event sparked rumors regarding a potential political shift, which Shivakumar promptly dismissed, asserting, “I am a born Congressman.”
He elaborated that his attendance at the Maha Kumbh was motivated purely by his spiritual convictions and his respect for diverse faiths, insisting that there were no political implications involved. “My visit to the Maha Kumbh reflects my beliefs, and I hold all religions in high regard,” he stated.
The Deputy Chief Minister also conveyed his disregard for the circulating rumors, remarking, “Such speculations do not concern me; I do not take the BJP’s allegations seriously.”
These rumors have surfaced amid an alleged power struggle within the Karnataka Congress. Shivakumar’s supporters have been vocal about his aspirations for the chief ministerial position, while Siddaramaiah maintains his claim to leadership.
Speculation has heightened following Siddaramaiah’s recent dinner with select Dalit and Scheduled Tribe (ST) cabinet ministers, which has led to discussions about a potential rotational Chief Minister arrangement.
Nevertheless, Shivakumar has sought to mitigate concerns regarding any leadership discord, stating, “The public has entrusted us for five years, and we will proceed accordingly. The Chief Minister and I will operate in alignment with the party’s directives.” He also dismissed calls from his supporters for him to assume the Chief Minister role, emphasizing, “I do not require anyone’s support. This is a matter between myself and the Congress party.”
