Bengaluru, March 14: Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress President DK Shivakumar launched a strong attack on the BJP regarding the ongoing situation with Odisha legislators staying at a resort in the outskirts of Bengaluru. He accused the party of being the architect behind ‘Operation Lotus’ and notorious for ‘horse-trading.’
Shivakumar made these remarks while responding to media questions at the Vidhana Soudha complex and later at a resort near Bidadi.
When asked about the Odisha legislators, he stated, “Political parties always live in fear of legislators being bought. All parties face such situations in politics. Since they are here, it is our duty to support them. My fellow legislators and I have met with them.”
In response to Union Minister Prahlad Joshi’s comment that Congress does not trust its own legislators, Shivakumar retorted, “If that is the case, why did they initiate ‘Operation Lotus’ in Karnataka?”
When questioned if this was a task assigned by the party leadership, he clarified that no such task exists. With the Rajya Sabha elections approaching, the fear of ‘Operation Lotus’ looms large. He mentioned that pressure is being exerted on their legislators, with significant temptations being offered. “About 14-15 legislators have come here. The Odisha PCC president informed me that all secular parties have united, and there is a fear of ‘Operation Lotus’ occurring,” he added.
Shivakumar emphasized the importance of respecting party leadership when called upon. “I invited them here because the environment is good. All legislators are happy. Some new faces have also arrived. They came on their own and are staying here. We are taking care of them. Together with BJD and the Communist Party, we have fielded a candidate in Odisha. The BJP will do what it wishes, and we will do what we must.”
When asked if his role as a problem-solver has ended, he noted that Congress legislators Magadi Balakrishna and Congress MP CP Yogeshwar are present. “Given their experience, we have given them full freedom. Each of our district legislators has their own responsibilities,” he stated.
He questioned, “Is it not our duty to protect everyone? Whether someone comes or not is a different matter. No one can reach them; no one can even talk to them. There is no room for that.”
When reminded of his assistance to the party during the Gujarat elections, he was asked if his political aspirations would now be fulfilled. He replied, “I will not comment on that. Let’s wait and see.”
When questioned if this situation would bring him closer to his political goals, he remarked, “Why should I dream? Where hard work is done, results will surely follow.”
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