D K Shivakumar rules out contesting in Channapatna bypolls

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar decisively ruled out contesting the Channapatna bypoll on Friday, emphasizing the speculative nature of recent discussions. ‘Why will there be any bye-election in Kanakapura? I am an MLA from Kanakapura and the state president of my party (Congress),’ he told reporters.

Shivakumar’s remarks came amid rumors ignited by his visit to the Anjaneya temple in Kengal, which led to speculation about a possible run for the Channapatna assembly seat vacated by H.D. Kumaraswamy. He emphasized that his significant political journey began in Channapatna and he was looking to garner support from local voters.

‘I have only asked people there to support me,’ Shivakumar stated, further explaining that he hails from the Ramanagara district and has a vested interest in its development. Asserting his central role, Shivakumar concluded, ‘Those who are writing an obituary of my political career should know there is a bigger power behind me, which is people’s power.’