BJP Mocks DK Shivakumar with 'Out of Stock' CM Chair Amid Karnataka Power Struggle

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The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has stepped up its attack on Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar, amidst an ongoing power struggle within the Congress government in the state. The BJP's Karnataka unit shared an AI-generated video on its social media handle, where Shivakumar attempts to purchase a 'chief minister's chair' online, only to receive an 'out of stock' message. The video is a clear dig at the reported power-sharing arrangement between CM Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, which involves a transfer of power after two and a half years. While Siddaramaiah has hinted at a Cabinet reshuffle, Shivakumar wants the leadership question resolved first. Sources close to the party reveal that Siddaramaiah is pushing for a Cabinet reshuffle, which would signal confidence in his ability to complete the full five-year term. This, in turn, would reduce the likelihood of Shivakumar taking over the tenure. The tussle between the two leaders has been ongoing since the Karnataka assembly elections in March 2023, when there were reports of a 'rotational chief minister formula' being agreed upon by the two leaders. However, Siddaramaiah has now placed the responsibility on the party high command to 'put a full stop to the confusion.' In response to the speculation, Shivakumar has stated that there was a 'secret deal' among a few party leaders, and he was guided by his conscience. He has declined to comment further, citing the potential for embarrassment to the party. The BJP's video has sparked a fresh round of speculation in the state, with many questioning the leadership's ability to resolve the issue. As the Congress government hits the midway point of its five-year term, the power struggle between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar is likely to continue.