After tweeting “In the corridors of power, I chose a cycle,” Karnataka Deputy CM Shivakumar loses balance and falls off his bicycle

At Vidhana Soudha, a playful bicycle spill sparked serious debates on environmental reforms and future leadership, proving even mishaps can drive change

Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister and Karnataka Congress President D.K. Shivakumar recently became the center of attention on social media after a video of him falling off a bicycle at the Vidhana Soudha went viral. The incident has sparked discussions about his alleged ambitions for the Chief Minister’s post. It comes on the heels of his recent post on his X handle, where he wrote, “In the corridors of power, I chose a cycle, because progress doesn’t always need horsepower, just people power,” accompanied by a picture of him riding a bike.

During the ‘Parisara Nadige (March for Environment)’ event, jointly organized by the Forest Department and the Karnataka Pollution Control Board in Bengaluru, Shivakumar was seen riding the bicycle confidently. Wearing goggles, a blue T-shirt, trousers, and sports shoes, he rode around with a smile and flashed victory signs to the media and environmentalists, including Congress MLA and Karnataka Pollution Control Board Chairman P.M. Narendraswamy.

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As he approached the North Gate Entrance of the Vidhana Soudha, Shivakumar attempted to stop the bike but lost his balance. Although he managed to slow the bicycle and tried to dismount, the bike continued moving forward. Holding on to the handlebars, he eventually fell on the steps. Observers and police quickly rushed to help him up. Undeterred by the mishap, Shivakumar smiled, walked confidently, and waved to the media.

After the incident, he delivered an enthusiastic speech addressing Scouts and Guides students. He announced a new order requiring every school in the state to form environment and climate change awareness clubs with at least 25 students each. The initiative aims to educate the younger generation on the importance of environmental conservation, tree plantation, and reducing plastic use.

Shivakumar further stressed that nurturing a clean and green environment is essential. He highlighted the natural advantages of Karnataka, noting the stark contrast in temperatures between Bengaluru and other cities like Delhi and Ahmedabad. He emphasized that creating clean air, water, and a healthy environment is a shared responsibility, and he encouraged the youth to take active steps for instance, by every student adopting a sapling as part of the state’s green drive.

In a further bid to promote environmental consciousness, around 5,000 Scouts and Guides children will march around the Vidhana Soudha, spreading awareness about protecting the environment. Shivakumar recalled his days as a Scout and underscored the importance of discipline, environmental responsibility, and community involvement. He also invited students to visit the Vidhana Soudha during their holidays to witness the unique convergence of the judiciary, executive, and legislature at this historical site.