Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar dismissed rumors of a rift within the Congress party on Friday, stating there was “nothing wrong” with PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi hosting a dinner for legislators from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s camp. Despite reports that leaders from his own faction were excluded from the gathering in Belagavi, Shivakumar questioned why a simple social meal should be scrutinized as a political move. He urged the media not to “find fault” with colleagues coming together for dinner, even as political observers viewed the meeting as a sign of consolidated support for the Chief Minister.
Beyond the internal party dynamics, Shivakumar addressed sharp criticisms from Karnataka BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra, who reportedly labeled him the “father of corruption.” Shivakumar challenged Vijayendra to prove allegations that the state government acts as an “ATM for the high command,” stating that time would provide the appropriate answer to such baseless claims. He also visited the Mahabaleshwara temple in Gokarna to perform special prayers, which sources suggest was aimed at removing obstacles in his pursuit of the Chief Minister’s post.
The Deputy Chief Minister also expressed personal grief over a recent car accident involving his private secretary, Rajendra Prasad, which resulted in the death of a young man. While confirming that his aide is stable and under medical observation for neck pain, Shivakumar promised that appropriate compensation would be provided to the bereaved family. He noted that the accident occurred while the team was returning from a temple visit and directed ministers to visit the family of the deceased to offer support.
