Internal power struggle has once again come to the fore in Karnataka politics. The tussle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar has now turned into a confrontation on the issue of transfers. The latest case is related to the transfer of five senior engineers, over which the Deputy Cm has openly expressed his displeasure.
Deputy CM furious over transfers
After Chief Minister Siddaramaiah transferred five senior engineers of PWD (Public Works Department) to the Water Resources Department, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar reacted sharply to this. He has written a formal letter to the Chief Secretary of the state and called it a violation of the basic consensus reached between the ministers.
Shivakumar made it clear in the letter that at the time of formation of the government, it was agreed that his prior permission would be mandatory for any appointment or transfer related to his department. Ignoring this consensus is not only a violation of administrative decorum, but it is also a politically sensitive issue.
Transfers of political importance
According to the information, all the officers who have been transferred have held senior and strategic positions. The Water Resources Department is considered extremely important not only administratively but also politically due to inter-state water disputes and projects.
It is believed that the party leadership will try to resolve this issue soon so that the image of the government is not tarnished.