Following the order of the high command to settle for the post of Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar revealed that he was not dismayed about settling for the deputy CM position after days of negotiations. However, has made a controversial statement during an interview on May 16.
During an interview with India Today, Shivakumar stated there was a team of journalists working for the party throughout the elections for them. The motive of these journalists was to win the assembly elections for the party.
“There were three teams working for me, apart from my AICC team…A team of journalists, my own political supporters and for the other one, I have a system in place for the past 10 years,” said Shivakumar.
He revealed how a number of journalists were hired on payroll to work for the party. These journalists made sure the perception of the common people of the state is changed towards the party.
Ever since the final call for the Chief Minister’s name has been made by the high command, there have been speculations and questions, ‘If Shivakumar is upset with the decision?’
Speaking to news agency ANI, the deputy CM-designate said, “Why should I be upset? There is a long way to go. When people have given such a big mandate, we should definitely be happy and fulfil the promises. That is our main motto, agenda.”
“The Congress party has a commitment before the people of Karnataka. Parliament elections are ahead. So, I have to bow to the AICC president and the Gandhi family. In the larger interest of the party (I have agreed to the formula) and why not, because sometimes the ice should break. Ultimately, there is a responsibility towards what we have a commitment to the people of Karnataka and we have to deliver,” he added.
Notably, reports claim that Siddaramaiah has a strong ideological opponent of the RSS and the BJP. Whereas DK Shivakumar has no such affinity, he had often seen expressing his religious beliefs by visiting temples etc.
After the announcement on May 18, Shivakumar tweeted a photo of him with Siddaramaiah and Kharge and said, “Karnataka’s secure future and our people’s welfare is our top priority, and we are united in guaranteeing that”.
