After extensive discussions in the national capital, D.K. Shivakumar, the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president and eight-time MLA, has reluctantly accepted the position of Deputy Chief Minister following the insistence of former AICC president Sonia Gandhi. He will also continue serving as the KPCC president until the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
D.K. Shivakumar, who celebrated his 62nd birthday recently, has been a prominent leader within the Karnataka Congress party. Since assuming office in July 2020, he played a pivotal role in the party’s remarkable victory, securing 135 seats in the state. Known for his never-say-die attitude, he led the party’s campaign against the BJP-led government’s “40% Sarakara” scheme in Karnataka, emphasizing the Congress party’s five pre-poll guarantees. His efforts, supported by a team of election experts, contributed to the party’s success.
Mr. Shivakumar belongs to the Vokkaliga community, which played a significant role in his triumph and the JD(S) party’s diminished performance in the Old Mysuru region. His tenacity and resilience in the face of investigations by central probing agencies such as the Income Tax Department and the Enforcement Directorate have earned him the moniker “Kanakapura Bande” (rock of Kanakapura) in certain media circles. Even after spending 50 days in Delhi’s Tihar Jail in 2019, he emerged undeterred and received a grand procession upon his release, which was seen as a show of support for the Vokkaliga community.
As the KPCC president, Shivakumar showcased his organizational skills by mobilizing large crowds for events like the Freedom March on Independence Day, Bharat Jodo Yatra, padayatra to Mekedatu, and the party’s rallies throughout Karnataka. He won his own Kanakapura Legislative Assembly constituency by the highest margin of votes, exceeding one lakh votes. Despite being under investigation by multiple agencies for alleged money laundering, income tax evasion, and disproportionate assets cases, Shivakumar remains one of the wealthiest politicians in Karnataka, with declared assets over ₹1,350 crore. His journey from a humble background to establishing a formidable business empire comprising educational institutions and real estate has been noteworthy.
D.K. Shivakumar’s ascent and influence in Karnataka politics can be attributed to his hard work, meticulous grassroots management, and financial clout. His appointment as Deputy Chief Minister marks a significant milestone in his political career, albeit with some reservations.