Karnataka Congress Faces Calls for More Deputy CMS

 Mangaluru: In response to growing demands for increasing the number of Deputy Chief Ministers in Karnataka, State Congress Chief DK Shivakumar who is also the Deputy Chief Minister, stated that the party would respond appropriately to such requests.

He was speaking to reporters in Mangaluru on Tuesday.

“You people (media) give news when somebody says something (on the DCM post). Can I say no to those who feel happy? Anybody may place any demand; the party will respond appropriately,” he remarked.

When questioned further about the party's stance, Shivakumar suggested directing inquiries to AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge or AICC General Secretary in charge, or the Chief Minister.

When the Congress came to power in 2023, there was considerable debate over who would become the Chief Minister. The primary contenders were Siddaramaiah, who served as CM from 2013 to 2018 and later as Leader of the Opposition during the BJP government, and DK Shivakumar, who had strengthened the party as the state Congress chief. Eventually, Siddaramaiah was appointed as CM and Shivakumar as DCM.

Despite this resolution, there have been ongoing discussions from within the Congress for the DCM post to be given to leaders from the Lingayat and SC/ST communities.

These demands have been voiced both openly and within party discussions, with some insiders suggesting that those unhappy with Shivakumar are pushing for additional DCM appointments to balance his influence.

Addressing the upcoming Channapatna by-election, Shivakumar told reporters that his brother, DK Suresh, is not keen on candidacy.

“He is not interested as people have asked him to take rest (as he has lost the recent Parliament election). However, he wants to work for the party. The people of Channapatna have given us 85,000 votes. We cannot let go of the people who have faith in us. People gave us 136 seats in assembly elections. It has to be used for the development of the people,” he added.