Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar clarified that his recent comments were aimed at the Kerala Chief Minister and government’s involvement in Karnataka’s affairs, not at the people of Kerala. He accused BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar of distorting his words to mislead the public. Responding to media queries, Shivakumar emphasized that his concerns were directed at the Kerala government’s interference in Karnataka’s administration, not towards Keralites.
Shivakumar expressed his positive relationship with the people of Kerala, stating that he holds them in high regard and plans to campaign in the state during the upcoming elections. He criticized the BJP for attempting to create confusion and urged against engaging in divisive politics. The Deputy CM highlighted the ongoing works in Karnataka Neeravari Nigam and Krishna Bhagya Jala Nigam, emphasizing projects totaling around Rs 5,000 crore, including land acquisition for the Upper Krishna Project requiring approximately Rs 70,000 crore in funding.
When questioned about his resolutions for the upcoming year, Shivakumar outlined goals of ensuring happiness for all and delivering effective governance in the state. He expressed hopes for favorable weather conditions to benefit farmers and mentioned the continuation of guarantee schemes and upcoming local body elections. Shivakumar affirmed that under the Congress government’s leadership, good governance will persist for the next seven-and-a-half years.
In response to speculation about his future leadership and a statement by MLA Iqbal Hussain regarding becoming CM, Shivakumar downplayed the remarks and deferred discussions on his leadership until 2026. He dismissed allegations by Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan of adopting a “bulldozer model” in Bengaluru, labeling them as politically motivated and urged against external interference in Karnataka’s internal matters. The AICC, expressing concerns over Karnataka’s demolition drive against unauthorized constructions, emphasized the need for caution and sensitivity in such actions.
