Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Feb 24: Amid Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah publicly expressing his desire to lead the party in the next assembly elections and return as CM, Karnataka deputy chief minister D K Shivakumar has asserted that regardless of his position, he will lead the party in the 2028 assembly elections.

Shivakumar's statement gains significance amid reports of some leaders urging the party high command to replace him as the state Congress president.

Leadership is about commitment, not position

Addressing a press conference at the Congress office in Bengaluru on Monday, when asked whether the 2028 elections would be held under his leadership, Shivakumar responded, "No matter what position I hold at that time, it is my duty to lead the party.”

“Positions do not determine leadership. Leadership, commitment, and vision drive a party forward. What I become is not important; what matters is strengthening and leading the party as a true Congressman with the power entrusted to me," he said.

Delhi visit for irrigation project discussions

When asked about his meetings in Delhi, Shivakumar stated, "I am traveling to Delhi to meet the Union minister for jal shakti. During my visit to Rajasthan for a conference, I raised concerns regarding our irrigation projects. The minister has allotted time for a meeting tomorrow.

“The files must progress through Union minister of state for jal shakti V Somanna, who is from our state. It would not be appropriate for me to discuss matters without him. I have also written to Somanna. The meeting is scheduled between 11 am and 12 noon.”

He added that state officials had already left for Delhi for a preliminary discussion. "After attending the meeting, if time permits and if our Delhi leaders are available, I will meet them as well. The AICC office is like a temple for us, so I will visit there too. The next morning, I have been invited by Sadhguru to an event at the Isha Foundation, and I will be attending that," he said.

No information on pending Gruha Jyoti bills

When asked about reports suggesting that citizens might be asked to pay pending Gruha Jyoti scheme bills, Shivakumar stated, "I have no information about this. I will respond once I receive details."

Belagavi bus conductor assault under review

Regarding the assault on a bus conductor by Marathi protesters in Belagavi, Shivakumar said, "The home minister and the transport minister are handling this issue. They have travelled to Belagavi to assess the situation. After their review, we will discuss the matter. Our state is peace-loving, and we want to live as brothers with everyone."

Response to Rs 2,000 crore scam allegation

When asked about BJP MLA N Muniratna's allegations regarding a Rs 2,000 crore scam, Shivakumar replied, "Let former CM B S Yediyurappa and leader of opposition R Ashoka respond to the cases filed against Muniratna. I will answer after that."

Sunil Kanugolu's suggestions for Congress

When asked whether he considers political strategist Sunil Kanugolu’s suggestions, Shivakumar said, "Decisions at the national level are made accordingly. He is the political secretary to the chief minister, and we will discuss and decide on the advice he gives for the party’s benefit. If you provide good suggestions for the party, we will accept them as well."

Congress aims to win 60 lost constituencies

Shivakumar revealed that internal surveys indicate Congress has a strong chance of winning around 60 constituencies it previously lost in assembly elections.

"We have directed our defeated candidates to prepare for the 2028 elections," he said.

He added that he had held a meeting with candidates who lost in 86 constituencies. "We listened to their difficulties and discussed preparations for the next elections, including local body elections. They must not remain inactive but work hard. We will discuss with the AICC and create a strategy to strengthen the party in the remaining 20 weak constituencies," he stated.

Separate meeting for Lok Sabha candidates

Shivakumar announced plans for a separate meeting with both victorious and defeated Lok Sabha candidates.

"Those who lost in the elections have been actively working for the Lok Sabha and cooperative society elections. They have been guided and motivated. Before the next legislative session, the chief minister and I will call a meeting with them and finalise a date," he said.