Rajanna to DCM: Don't 'misuse' AICC, high command's name

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: The power tussle within the ruling Congress in Karnataka seems to be intensifying with Cooperation Minister K N Rajanna on Monday hitting back at Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, urging him not to "misuse" the name of the AICC and the party high command. He was reacting to Shivakumar's statement on Sunday—in which he indirectly hit out at Rajanna and other party leaders and ministers considered close to CM Siddaramaiah— stating there is no need for anyone to make statements 'misusing' the name of the CM, the undisputed leader of the Congress party in Karnataka.

Shivakumar's statement was in response to a section of party leaders who have been advocating for Siddaramaiah to complete his full term as Chief Minister, stating that his leadership is crucial for the party to retain power in the next election amid speculations about a potential leadership change in Karnataka later this year. The Congress chief, Shivakumar who has made no secret of his ambition to become the CM, chose not to respond to Rajanna's comments. He said that he doesn't want to indulge in discussions and would address the issue after returning from his Kerala and Rajasthan tour.

Addressing media here, Rajanna said, "I too agree that the CM's name should not be misused. We should also tell him (Shivakumar) not to misuse the AICC and high command's name, as he repeatedly mentions the AICC and the high command. For everything, he refers to the AICC—will the AICC come and speak on every issue? If issues are brought to their notice, they may give their opinion or instructions."