KPCC issues notice to MLA Shivaganga Basavaraju over CM power handover remark

The Karnataka Congress has issued a disciplinary notice to MLA Shivaganga Basavaraju after his public claim that DK Shivakumar would become Chief Minister by December, stirring internal unrest. This development comes amid ongoing speculation over power-sharing between CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM Shivakumar, despite official denials of any transition plans.

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) Disciplinary Committee has issued a formal notice to Channagiri MLA Shivaganga Basavaraju after his controversial statement regarding the Chief Minister’s post triggered internal dissent.

Basavaraju, speaking in Davangere recently, declared that Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar would assume charge as Chief Minister of Karnataka by December this year. The assertion quickly gained traction, fuelling speculation and creating confusion within the Congress ranks at a time when the party leadership has been trying to project unity.

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In its notice, the KPCC expressed strong displeasure, stating that the MLA’s comments amounted to indiscipline. “You have made statements that caused confusion and embarrassment to the party regarding the change of Chief Minister. Such remarks are a violation of party discipline and have been taken seriously. You are directed to submit an explanation within seven days of receiving this notice,” the letter read.

Party leaders stressed that no individual MLA has the authority to speak about leadership transitions. KPCC President D.K. Shivakumar, reacting to the controversy, said on Saturday, “No one should talk about the Chief Minister’s power or related issues. MLAs must follow party discipline and not create confusion with unnecessary statements. Despite repeated warnings, Shivaganga (Basavaraju) made such a statement, which cannot be tolerated.”

The disciplinary notice reflects the Congress leadership’s concern over maintaining internal cohesion, especially amidst ongoing speculation about a possible power-sharing arrangement between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar. While Siddaramaiah has repeatedly maintained that he will complete a full five-year term, remarks like Basavaraju’s have reignited debates over factional divisions.

With the notice, the Congress high command has sought to send a strong message to its legislators against making unilateral statements that could be interpreted as official party positions. Political observers note that the incident highlights simmering unease within the ruling party, even as it publicly attempts to dismiss rumors of an impending leadership change.