‘We Work Like Brothers’: DK Shivakumar Dismisses Rumours Of Rift With Siddaramaiah

Karnataka’s deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday shut down speculation regarding internal friction within the Congress, asserting that he and chief minister Siddaramaiah share a bond akin to brotherhood.

Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar addressed persistent rumours of a leadership tussle, labelling them a “creation of the media and the Opposition”.

“No Differences Among Leaders”

Responding to questions about his recent meeting with former minister KN Rajanna, often perceived a close aide to the chief minister, Shivakumar clarified that his relationships within the party remain strong and professional.

“Aren’t the CM and I working like brothers? I don’t have differences with any Congress leader,” he said. Regarding Rajanna, he added, “He

is close to me too. I was the one who made him president of Apex Bank during SM Krishna’s tenure. We are colleagues; it was simply a courtesy call.”

He further challenged the narrative of a divided house, noting that he has maintained a steady relationship with Siddaramaiah since the latter joined the party 16 years ago.

The deputy CM also clarified about his Delhi visit, arguing that it was not political and was for the upcoming high-level meetings in the Capital. He said during the Delhi visit, he intends to discuss Bengaluru metro funding. Shivakumar demanded a 50 per cent grant for Bengaluru Metro projects, arguing that the current 12-13 per cent is insufficient. He said he will discuss new lines for Hoskote and Bidadi, alongside double-decker infrastructure projects. A meeting with the Union environment minister regarding the Mahadayi and Yettinahole projects is also on the agenda, along with finalising a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) to ensure water security.

Addressing a letter written by senior party leader VR Sudarshan to AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge regarding party “confusion”, Shivakumar dismissed the concerns. He claimed the BJP is attempting to project its own “internal mess” onto the Congress.