The ongoing verbal sparring between Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy and Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar intensified as Kumaraswamy accused Shivakumar of encroaching upon the Home Department portfolio, which is under Minister G. Parameshwara’s purview. Responding to media queries in Delhi, Kumaraswamy countered Shivakumar’s comments on his political experience, sarcastically highlighting his own stints as Chief Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and now Union Minister.
Shivakumar, in turn, had insinuated a possible merger between Janata Dal (Secular) and the BJP, prompting Kumaraswamy to question Shivakumar’s authority in chairing a police meeting in Ballari, a responsibility falling within the Home Minister’s or Chief Minister’s domain. The exchange further escalated with Kumaraswamy questioning Shivakumar’s understanding of protocol and seniority, leading to a heated exchange of accusations and challenges between the two political figures.
In a tit-for-tat response, Shivakumar emphasized his administrative experience, asserting his competence in governance and decision-making processes. Dismissing Kumaraswamy’s criticisms, Shivakumar emphasized his tenure as a Minister and his adeptness in handling administrative affairs, signaling a deepening rift in their political discourse.
