Congress MLA Basavaraju V. Shivaganga made a daring statement on Sunday, claiming that Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar would become Chief Minister by December.
Addressing the press in Davanagere, MLA Basavaraju asserted in no uncertain terms, "Mark this down—Shivakumar will become the CM by December. It is sure. If necessary, I can put this in my own blood. After he takes over, he will rule so well that he will win the next assembly polls and complete his term."
Reiterating his position, Shivaganga reiterated that Shivakumar's term as Chief Minister would last for the next 7.5 years, starting in December. He also claimed that the Congress party, with Shivakumar at the helm, would win the next state elections.
He attributed Shivakumar's outstanding work to the party's recent victories in both the state assembly and Lok Sabha polls, giving credit to his hard work and commitment for the party's strong performance.
I will support Shivakumar in every scenario. We strongly believe that the Congress high command will make him the Chief Minister. Due to his leadership, 75 to 80 new MLAs won in the state Assembly. He is an important support pillar of the party, and we will put pressure on the high command to give him the highest post," he said.
Referring to it as their rightful demand, Shivaganga said Shivakumar would take over the CM position with the backing of Congress MLAs. He also called for the party leadership to act against Cooperation Minister K.N. Rajanna for his comments against Shivakumar, adding that such comments were tarnishing the party's image.
At the same time, during a party function in Udupi, former Union Minister Veerappa Moily expressed similar thoughts by saying that nothing could stop Shivakumar from becoming Chief Minister. In front of Shivakumar, Moily said the move to make him CM had already been decided.
I was the one who first awarded Shivakumar the party ticket to fight the MLA election. He has turned into a powerful political leader over the years, and it is really satisfying to see him grow," Moily said.
He also told Shivakumar to keep calm when faced with criticism. "There will be words spoken against you, but do not respond. Stay calm and unshaken," Moily cautioned.
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