‘D.K. Shivakumar must restore governance that was derailed by Siddaramaiah and team’
Mysuru, June 5 – MLC A.H. Vishwanath (AHV) has described Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s traditional style of conduct as an effective counter to the BJP’s hardline Hindutva politics.
Addressing media persons at Jaladarshini Guest House here yesterday, Vishwanath, a former Congress leader, referred to the events leading up to Shivakumar’s swearing-in as CM.
He said Shivakumar’s visits to religious places and meetings with prominent leaders, including former Prime Minister and JD(S) supremo H.D. Deve Gowda and former CM B.S. Yediyurappa, reflected a commendable approach.
“The way Shivakumar traditionally conducted himself helps dispel the perception of Congress as anti-Hindu party, which was earlier fostered during Siddaramaiah’s tenure. He must continue this pro-Hindu stance,” AHV said.
He also said Shivakumar must prove himself as an able administrator while building on his organisational experience that helped the party return to power.
‘Son-in-law of Mysuru’
Drawing a comparison in leadership succession, Vishwanath noted that while Siddaramaiah, the ‘son of Mysuru’, was earlier CM, Shivakumar, the ‘son-in-law of Mysuru’ (married to Usha from Ittigegud), now holds CM post. He said people of Mysuru have high expectations from him and added that he plans to invite Shivakumar to the city to honour him.
Recalling the S.M. Krishna era, Vishwanath suggested reviving and expanding the Mysore Agenda Task Force (MATF) across the State to boost development initiatives.
He said Mysuru’s indigenous products such as Mysore betel leaves, Mysore jasmine and Mysore silk, continue to draw global attention, but warned that land mafia activities, allegedly involving officials from the Police, Revenue and Urban local bodies, pose a threat to such heritage brands.
Flays Siddu
Taking a sharp dig at Siddaramaiah, Vishwanath alleged that during his tenure, governance was affected by the influence of close aides and family members, leading to systemic issues. “The responsibility of restoring the system now lies with Shivakumar,” he said.
He added that Shivakumar’s rise from a party worker to Chief Minister, through roles such as Youth Congress President and KPCC chief, was commendable and reflected his organisational strength.
“I am personally happy over his elevation. With two years left in the current term, he must address several administrative gaps,” Vishwanath said, adding that the new KPCC leadership under B.K. Hariprasad is expected to strengthen the party.
He called for special attention to the school education system, which he alleged was weakened by the previous government.
On the proposed Bidadi Township project, Vishwanath advised caution, warning that no government in the past had survived farmer unrest. He urged the CM to take the farmers into confidence before proceeding with the project.
This post was published on June 5, 2026 7:30 pm