Alleging a surge in corruption and public distress in Assam under BJP governance for a decade, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed dissatisfaction with unmet election promises, hinting at a potential political transformation in the state. Shivakumar, also the Karnataka Congress president, has been designated as a senior observer by the All India Congress Committee for the 2026 Assam Assembly elections to supervise strategic planning and campaign activities.
Speaking to the press at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport before departing for Assam, Shivakumar clarified his visit’s purpose, stating his involvement in election campaigning in Assam, overseeing Karnataka’s by-elections, and addressing the alleged administrative breakdown in Assam prompting a demand for change due to a lack of progress over the past decade.
Accusing the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led government of widespread corruption, Shivakumar criticized all Assam ministers for exploiting the state’s resources, emphasizing the lack of development for the common people despite assurances on caste and land issues over the years. He highlighted internal discord within the Assam BJP post-cabinet reshuffle, citing member dissatisfaction and infighting following the candidate list announcement, indicating a growing discontent within the party ranks.
