Shivakumar Return Disappointed After He Fails To Meet LoP In New Delhi
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Monday had to return disappointed from New Delhi after his meeting with Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi could not happen in New Delhi owing to the latter's busy schedule in Bihar Assembly polls.
BENGALURU: Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Monday had to return disappointed from New Delhi after his meeting with Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi could not happen in New Delhi owing to the latter's busy schedule in Bihar Assembly polls.
However, sources said D.K. Shivakumar would be in New Delhi on November 11 to meet Rahul Gandhi where he is likely to stake claim for the post of Chief Minister.
While Chief Minister Siddaramaiah hopes to continue in the post, Shivakumar insists on the reported seat sharing pact and smooth transfer of power since Siddaramaiah will be completing his two-and-half years term as Chief Minister. Shivakumar, a front runner for the CM post, wants a new cabinet as well.
On his return from New Delhi, a seemingly disappointed D.K. Shivakumar, told reporters in Bengaluru, he met Congress leader Ambika Soni to offer condolences over her husband’s death and stated no special significance can be attached to his visit to New Delhi.
In response to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s statement that he will continue as Chief Minister as per the wishes of the high command, Shivakumar replied “Then that’s the final.”
Meanwhile, former minister K.N. Rajanna, a close aide of Siddaramaiah, stated “Just like the family of former Prime Minister H.D. Devegowda for Janata Dal Secular (JDS), former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa for Bharatiya Janata Party, Karnataka unit, Siddaramaiah is inevitably needed for the Congress party.”
Rajanna, over D.K. Shivakumar, rushing to New Delhi, said, “Nothing special in it. He would bring the recent political developments in Karnataka to the notice of Rahul Gandhi and Shivakumar will abide by his words.”
It is said D.K. Shivakumar issued directions to his supporters not to comment on change of leadership in Karnataka till November 11, the date on which he is scheduled to meet Rahul Gandhi.
