Karnataka: Some Cong MLAs rush to Delhi amid power-sharing buzz

In Karnatak, tensions within the ruling Congress have intensified as ten MLAs from Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s camp rushed to Delhi, increasing pressure on the party high command to implement the long-discussed power-sharing arrangement, according to reports. With the Congress government completing two and a half years in office, the leadership rotation debate has resurfaced prominently. The MLAs travelled to Delhi on Thursday afternoon seeking meetings with senior leaders. The faction is reportedly pushing the high command to honour the alleged agreement made when the government was formed.

Those who travelled, include Dinesh Gooligowda, Ravi Ganiga and Gubbi Vasu, while Anekal Shivanna, Nelamangala Srinivas, Iqbal Hussain, Kunigal Ranganath, Shivaganga Basavaraju and Balakrishna are expected to arrive Friday. Twelve more MLAs are likely to reach Delhi on Friday, the report said. However, when asked out the same, Shivakumar said he is not aware of it and that he is not keeping well..

Siddaramaiah, however, dismissed the buzz, calling it a “media creation” and insisting he has a five-year mandate. He attributed the renewed chatter to his earlier remark that a cabinet reshuffle could be considered after 2.5 years.The development came a day after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah completed two-and-a-half years in office.

Meanwhile, Shivakumar's brother and former MP D K Suresh said Siddaramaiah never backtracks from his promises. When asked whether Siddaramaiah would keep his promise made to Shivakumar, Suresh said he has no clue about it. "You should ask about big things only to big people. How can I answer such questions?" he asked reporters in Bengaluru. Suresh said his brother had communicated to party seniors whatever was needed. "The matter is now left to the party, its leadership, the AICC president and Rahul Gandhi to decide," he added.

(State Correpondent)