The ongoing friction between Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar became publicly evident once again during the state government’s ‘Sadhana Samavesha’ event held on Saturday.
Following a detailed address by AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, Siddaramaiah took to the stage to highlight his administration’s achievements. While he acknowledged several ministers, legislators, and Congress leaders present, he notably omitted Shivakumar’s name. Interestingly, Shivakumar had addressed the gathering earlier and left the venue before Siddaramaiah’s speech began.
Assuming the exclusion was accidental, a Congress leader, accompanied by actor and music director Sadhu Kokila, approached Siddaramaiah to discreetly point out the omission. However, Siddaramaiah clarified that the exclusion was deliberate. “DK Shivakumar is not on the stage. He left for Bengaluru for another engagement. We acknowledge only those who are present on the dais, not those who have departed or are elsewhere. As an advocate, you should know this,” the CM responded curtly.
Siddaramaiah continued his speech, stating that several ministers and legislators on stage may not get an opportunity to speak due to time constraints, as Kharge had to return to Delhi. He added that no one should feel slighted. His pointed comments drew a subtle smile from Kharge and Home Minister G Parameshwara, hinting at the underlying tension.
The public nature of the snub further confirms the deepening divide within the state Congress leadership, raising concerns about internal unity as the party prepares for upcoming challenges.