DK Shivakumar Becomes Deputy CM with Sonia Gandhi’s Support in Karnataka

“DK Shivakumar Appointed Deputy CM as Sonia Gandhi Plays Key Role in Convincing Him”

New Delhi: The Karnataka assembly election results created much anticipation about who would become the Chief Minister of the state. After four days of intense speculation, the Congress party achieved a significant victory, but the selection of the CM remained uncertain. Both KPCC chief DK Shivakumar and former CM Siddaramaiah emerged as strong contenders, leading to intense political discussions in Delhi.

DK Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah separately met with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, senior leader Rahul Gandhi, and party general secretary KC Venugopal to present their case for the CM post. The Congress leadership worked diligently to find a solution to the impasse, considering various options.

According to party sources, after extensive deliberations, Siddaramaiah was chosen for the position of Chief Minister, while DK Shivakumar was offered the role of Deputy Chief Minister. However, DK Shivakumar, who had high aspirations for the CM’s chair, initially expressed his discontent but ultimately accepted the Deputy CM position, leading to some upheaval.

DK Shivakumar has been a dedicated party worker, providing financial support during challenging times and earning a reputation as a troubleshooter. He explained to the party leadership how he had dedicated himself to the party over the past four years, particularly during the collapse of the JDS-Congress government formed after the 2018 elections. He emphasized his desire for the CM post, expressing his deep emotional connection to the party, which he considers his mother. He recalled Sonia Gandhi’s visit during his time in jail, highlighting the bond he shares with the party.

Nevertheless, the party leadership concluded that Siddaramaiah, with his widespread support among MLAs in the Karnataka CLP, should be entrusted with the role of Chief Minister. Recognized as a leader with mass appeal, Siddaramaiah’s previous experience as CM from 2013 to 2018 further solidified the Congress party’s inclination towards him. Several options were reportedly proposed to DK Shivakumar, but it was ultimately former Congress President Sonia Gandhi’s intervention that convinced him to accept the position of Deputy CM, according to party sources.

A resolution to the deadlock within the Karnataka Congress was reportedly reached after Sonia Gandhi’s conversation with DK Shivakumar on Wednesday evening. The swearing-in ceremony for Karnataka’s new Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister is scheduled to take place in Bengaluru on May 20, as confirmed by Congress party sources.