- As you are aware, the Congress party was overwhelmingly supported by the people of Karnataka during the state assembly elections, propelling it to form the government with a brute majority. The entire campaign of the Congress was premised on the five guarantee schemes, which played a major role in the electorate choosing the Grand Old Party without any ambiguity. The tussle for the highest executive office of the state was primarily between the two leaders, viz. Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar. Due to socio-economic considerations and the balancing of caste equations, a typical Indian political scenario, the weight was in favour of the former, who was appointed as the Chief Minister despite the latter’s formidable bidding for the top chair.
PC: YouTube
- Due credit should accrue to the state government headed by the Chief Minister for implementing the promised guarantees with fanfare. Unsurprisingly, there were some glitches here and there, but the guarantee schemes were implemented for the benefit of the marginalized, women, and unemployed as intended. However, the underlying currents between the two stalwart leaders were palpable right from day one. The media remains abuzz with the power-sharing deal reached between the two leaders in the presence of the party’s high command. And what was the power-sharing deal struck by the two leaders? The CM is to hand over the charge after completing two-and-a-half-years to the deputy CM as part of the agreement reached.
PC: The Indian Express
- This issue has bogged the government right from day one is stating the obvious. Supporters of the two leaders have ensured the matter stays in the limelight by reminding each other of their positions unequivocally. The CM has time and again stated that he will remain at the helm of affairs for the entire duration of the tenure. Also, has reiterated that he will abide by whatever the high command decides on the matter. On the other hand, the DCM has not only made several trips to New Delhi, meeting the top party brass to remind them about the power-sharing arrangement, but also has issued statements about such a deal to keep the matter alive. Yes, he, too, has stated in no uncertain terms that the party high command will be the ultimate decider. Or is it?
PC: Oneindia
- Needless to mention, the power tussle between the two has affected the administration of the ruling government, though the two leaders and their supporters would want us to believe otherwise. The bureaucrats are confused about the potential turn of events and are, hence, cagey about making decisions to implement measures for the benefit of the people. Prima facie, the party high command also appears to be in a dilemma whether to press ahead with honoring the commitment made to the DCM or to continue with the incumbent CM for the rest of the tenure. The state political landscape is buzzing with anticipation of a dramatic change in the next few weeks. As usual, ordinary tax-paying people are feeling undone by the unfolding political drama.
