- Ever since the Grand Old Party won a spectacular state assembly election in Karnataka and the subsequent forming of a government, the talks surrounding the power-sharing agreement between the two stalwart politicians Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar have been in circulation. The people well versed with Karnataka politics would nod in agreement that the contributions of powerful leader DK Shivakumar as the state party president and the eventual formation of the Congress government are largely owing to the efforts of the strongman. The entire country is aware of the unquestionable political credentials of Shivakumar who is not only considered resourceful but also acknowledged as the driving force in galvanizing Congress in Karnataka.
PC: MoneyControl
- Also, people familiar with the political machinations in the state know how the caste equations play a significant role. The dominant castes like Vokkaliga and Lingayat are in a position of authority vis-à-vis political connections by establishing credentials around the seat of power is a well-known fact. Shivakumar represents the Vokkaliga community and aspires to assume the role of chief minister is not a secret anymore. On the other hand, Siddaramaiah is the incumbent chief minister representing the Kuruba community and is considered the unquestioned leader of the backward communities. Soon after the Congress won the state assembly polls, the country was witness to the power struggle between the two stalwarts to become chief minister.
PC: Deccan Herald
- Eventually, Siddaramaiah was sworn in as the CM and Shivakumar had to settle for the position of Deputy CM with two important portfolios under him. The state political circle is abuzz with talks of the power-sharing agreement brokered by the high command between the two to be the CM for 30 months each. Even though no official communication is forthcoming from different quarters, the swirling rumours surrounding the undeclared arrangement have started gaining ground in the last few weeks. Officially none of the protagonists involved in the matter have come out suggesting such an arrangement even exists. Both the CM and the Dy CM have said that the incumbent will continue to be at the helm for the entire duration of the assembly term.
PC: Indian Today
However, behind-the-scenes activities between the two supporters have consistently hit the headlines in recent times. Shivakumar has made no efforts to hide his avowed desire to become the CM of the state on several occasions. Likewise, political leaders owing allegiance to Siddaramaiah have made no bones of their leader continuing to complete the full term. We also know how some of the CM’s supporters are raising questions openly about Shivakumar’s continuation as the state party chief as a countermove. Any keen observers would notice how Shivakumar is keeping a low profile but with a determined disposition that the party high command takes appropriate decisions at the right time. The suspense continues in Karnataka.
