Karnataka Power Tussle: Shivakumar Douses Leadership Speculation Amid MGNREGA Row

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Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar's meeting with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday was focused on the Centre's plan to replace the rural employment guarantee scheme, not on the state's leadership crisis, he insisted. The meeting, held at Kharge's residence, came amidst speculation about a possible change of chief minister after the Congress government completed its halfway mark of the five-year term. However, Shivakumar clarified that his discussion with Kharge was limited to his capacity as state Congress president ahead of the Congress Working Committee meeting scheduled for December 27. Shivakumar denied any discussion on the leadership issue and reiterated that he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah have committed to abiding by the party's high command's decision. Earlier this week, Kharge had stated that the leadership issue in Karnataka existed only at the local level and not within the party's high command. Shivakumar said that Kharge's guidance as a senior leader was helpful. Regarding his recent comments about remaining a party worker, Shivakumar clarified that they were meant to highlight his lifelong association with the party, not to signal any ambition for a post. He emphasized his commitment to the party and stated that he has worked tirelessly for the Congress, from pasting party posters to doing sweeping work. The speculation surrounding Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah being summoned to Delhi has not materialized yet. Shivakumar stated that he has no plans to travel unless called by the party. The leadership issue has persisted despite Siddaramaiah's assertion on the Assembly floor that he would continue as chief minister and that the party high command was in his favor. The Congress Working Committee will meet on December 27 to discuss the Centre's decision to replace the rural employment guarantee scheme. Shivakumar criticized the Centre's move, saying it would shift a 40% financial burden onto states, which no state can afford. He announced plans to organize a big movement to protect rural development and restore the MGNREGA scheme, involving panchayat members and MGNREGA workers.