Shivakumar’s Delhi visit amid sting operation row triggers political speculation

Bengaluru, Oct 22 : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s visit to New Delhi on Thursday amid the controversy over an alleged sting operation targeting former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has triggered speculation about possible discussions with the Congress central leadership.

Shivakumar is scheduled to meet Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav and Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia. The meetings are expected to focus on key issues concerning Karnataka, including the Mekedatu drinking water project, the Kasturirangan report on the Western Ghats and the Mahadayi river water dispute.

However, the timing of his visit has attracted political attention amid the escalating controversy over the alleged sting operation. Congress sources indicated that Shivakumar could meet the party’s national leadership to discuss the developments and their possible implications for the party.

Siddaramaiah is reportedly upset over the controversy. He has obtained a court injunction restraining media organisations from publishing video content linked to him and has filed a police complaint seeking action against those responsible for circulating the material.

The controversy has further intensified the confrontation between the Congress and the Janata Dal (Secular). Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy has alleged that Shivakumar was behind the release of the video linked to Siddaramaiah. He has also criticised the police action against JD(S) workers in connection with Siddaramaiah’s complaint.

Kumaraswamy staged a protest at the Bengaluru Police Commissioner’s Office, questioning the police action. He has issued sharp statements targeting Shivakumar and Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara, challenging them to take action against him and warning of consequences.

The Union Minister had scheduled an emergency press conference at the JD(S) headquarters on Thursday but later postponed it, citing official work related to his ministry.

Against this backdrop, Shivakumar’s Delhi visit has fuelled speculation over whether the sting operation controversy will figure in his discussions with the Congress leadership. However, there was no official confirmation of any such meeting or its agenda.