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Karnataka deputy CM DK Shivakumar said he and CM Siddaramaiah have shared a history of overcoming challenges together and have stood by one another during difficult periods
Karnataka deputy CM DK Shivakumar (R) hit out at the BJP’s allegations of an ongoing power-sharing dispute between him and CM Siddaramaiah (L). (Image: X)
Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar downplayed continued speculation over the power tussle between him and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah with a strong response to the opposition BJP in the state legislative assembly on Monday.
Reaffirming unity in the ruling Congress, Shivakumar dismissed power-sharing rumours in a sharp exchange with the BJP in the assembly.
He hit out at the saffron party’s allegations of an ongoing power-sharing dispute in the Congress, when it confronted the state government over internal friction and political instability within its ranks. He chose to stress his confidence in the entire legislative party.
“My strength is 136 MLAs, including Siddaramaiah,” Shivakumar said, highlighting his long-standing partnership with the chief minister.
He further said he and Siddaramaiah have shared a history of overcoming challenges together and have stood by one another during difficult periods. He reminded the assembly that his political journey, which began in student politics, was shaped by struggle suggesting his resilience against external pressure.
With his response, the deputy chief minister deferred ultimate leadership choices to the Congress high command, seeking to project a unified front against the opposition’s allegations. He made it clear that while the high command will take necessary decisions at the appropriate time, he will not bow down to the BJP’s attempts to destabilise his party’s image.
The debate intensified when the leader of the opposition, R Ashoka, questioned the loyalty of specific ministers, including Santosh Lad. He alleged that the “power tussle” between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar over the CM’s post has “gravely impacted” the administration in the state.
“Which side are you on?” Ashoka directly addressed Lad, suggesting that the government was split into competing factions. “Someone told me DK Shivakumar has the support of 56 MLAs.”
Ashoka alleged that certain leaders shift their allegiance between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar within morning to night. Lad responded by warning him against making such personal remarks during the session.
Ashoka further alleged that the state government is “immersed in corruption”, adding that the administration has reached a “coma stage”. He made these remarks while taking part in the motion of thanks to the governor’s address in the assembly.
“The Congress government led by Siddaramaiah has sacrificed the interests and prestige of the state in many matters for the sake of political prestige, the quarrel between the CM and the deputy CM, and the appeasement of the high command,” he said.
February 02, 2026, 17:58 IST
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