Kharge Cracks Down on DK Shivakumar Slogans, Warns Congress Workers of Action

Kharge Warns Congress Workers of Disciplinary Action Over Pro-DK Shivakumar Slogans

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday publicly reprimanded party workers after supporters raised slogans in favour of Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar during the party’s ‘Sankalpa Samavesha’ event in Bengaluru.

The disruption occurred while senior Congress leaders were addressing the gathering, prompting Kharge to intervene and stress that the programme was meant to showcase party unity rather than promote any individual leader.

Visibly displeased by repeated chants of “DK-DK” from a section of the audience, Kharge reminded workers that the Congress organisation takes precedence over individual personalities.

“This is a party programme, not an event dedicated to any one leader. We are all here to strengthen the party and work collectively,” Kharge said while urging supporters to maintain discipline.

The veteran Congress leader also expressed concern over repeated interruptions during the proceedings, questioning the purpose of the gathering if only a few individuals were allowed to dominate the atmosphere with slogan-shouting.

Drawing on his decades-long political journey, Kharge highlighted the role the Congress party has played in shaping the careers of many leaders. He said the organisation had provided opportunities and recognition to numerous politicians and therefore deserved respect above personal loyalties.

The Congress chief further cautioned party workers against indiscipline, warning that those responsible for disrupting the programme could face action.

He said footage from the event would be reviewed and appropriate disciplinary measures would be taken if necessary. Kharge emphasized that maintaining organisational discipline remains essential for the party’s functioning and growth.

The remarks come amid recurring political speculation over leadership equations within the Karnataka Congress, where both Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar remain influential figures in the state government.

Kharge’s intervention appeared aimed at sending a clear message that public displays of factionalism or personality-centric politics would not be encouraged at official party events.