‘BJP MLAs Reaching Out to Us’: DK Shivakumar Hits Back After Shinde Comparison in Karnataka Political Row
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has stirred the political pot, claiming that “several BJP MLAs” are trying to reach out to the ruling Congress party. His statement comes amid swirling rumors of a split within Congress, fueled by the opposition BJP comparing him to Maharashtra’s Eknath Shinde, who famously broke away from Shiv Sena in 2022. Shivakumar, however, insists Congress remains united while calling the BJP a “broken house.”
“Let BJP keep its house in order first,” Shivakumar told ANI on Sunday. “As some of my ministers have said, several BJP MLAs are trying to get in touch with us. I don’t want to discuss that. Congress is a united house.” His comments follow a controversy sparked on February 26, when he shared a stage with spiritual leader Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev and Union Home Minister Amit Shah at a Shivratri event in Coimbatore. Congress leaders criticized the move, especially since Shah attacked the party during the event, igniting rumors of internal strife.
The Karnataka BJP seized the moment, with Leader of Opposition R Ashoka suggesting Shivakumar could be “Karnataka’s Eknath Shinde,” hinting at a potential defection to topple the Congress government. State BJP chief BY Vijayendra added fuel, claiming infighting within Congress has intensified. Shivakumar dismissed these speculations, defending his attendance as a “religious visit” and not a political maneuver. “Sadhguru is from Karnataka and invited me personally. Leaders from all parties were there,” he explained.
ALSO READ | ‘I Will Drink Your Blood’: Woman Caught Biting, Beating Mother in Shocking Haryana Property Dispute Video
At the heart of the tension is Shivakumar’s long-standing ambition to become Chief Minister. After leading Congress to a landslide victory in the 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections with 135 seats, he was made Deputy CM under Siddaramaiah. Shivakumar has repeatedly hinted at a power-sharing deal, but Siddaramaiah’s camp denies any such agreement, insisting he’ll serve a full five-year term. Over a dozen ministers loyal to the CM have recently challenged Shivakumar’s claims, deepening the rift.
As of today, this political drama shows no signs of slowing. With both parties trading barbs and alliances in question, Karnataka’s political landscape remains on edge. Could BJP MLAs really be eyeing Congress, or is this a bluff? Only time will tell.
