In a major political controversy that has rocked the Karnataka government, aide to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, H Anjaneya, has levelled serious allegations of assault against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s close officer, C Mohan Kumar, after an incident that took place at Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi.

According to the formal complaint filed by Anjaneya with Resident Commissioner Imkongla Jamir, the altercation escalated to physical violence. He claimed that he was hit with a shoe and was threatened in front of other officials, leading to a significant loss of personal dignity and raising concerns about his safety while discharging official duties.

Anjaneya, who serves as special officer to DK Shivakumar, described the act as not just humiliating but also a deliberate attempt to undermine his authority and threaten his well-being. He demanded criminal proceedings against C Mohan Kumar, who is assistant resident commissioner and special officer to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Detailed Allegations of Assault

In his complaint, Anjaneya stated:

“I was beaten with a shoe, and it has hurt my honour and dignity. Conduct a criminal trial against him and give me justice.”

He further added that C Mohan Kumar has a history of unruly behavior, alleging that Kumar had previously assaulted another official, M M Joshi, and often disregards seniority and protocol. This pattern of misconduct, Anjaneya claims, has made it difficult to perform his duties without fear or intimidation.

The incident, which took place in the official chambers of the Karnataka Bhavan, has sparked widespread backlash, particularly because it reflects internal fractures within the Congress-led Karnataka state government.

Political Implications and BJP's Reaction

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka wasted no time in seizing the opportunity to call out the alleged internal chaos within the Congress. The party has highlighted the altercation as a symptom of a power struggle that has long been speculated between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar.

The BJP termed the incident “evidence of crumbling coordination and a deteriorating chain of command within the ruling Congress coalition”. They have demanded that strict disciplinary action be taken to maintain the dignity of public service and ensure security within government establishments.

History of Conflict Between Factions

This is not the first time that tensions between supporters of Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar have surfaced. While both leaders played crucial roles in the Congress party’s victory in the 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections, their mutual political ambitions have led to repeated reports of conflicting approaches and hidden rivalries.

Sources within the Congress confirm that Shivakumar's faction has long felt marginalized, with many of his loyalists complaining of lack of cooperation from Siddaramaiah’s camp. The altercation at Karnataka Bhavan is now being seen as a manifestation of this unresolved conflict.

Complaint Details and Background

In his elaborate written complaint, Anjaneya detailed the following:

• He was assaulted with a shoe in front of other staffers.

• Threats were issued directly by C Mohan Kumar during working hours.

• Kumar has previous incidents of aggression recorded in his service book.

• Anjaneya had earlier sought a transfer due to concerns over personal safety and hostile work environment.

Jamir, the Resident Commissioner, acknowledged the receipt of the complaint on July 22, confirming that due process will be followed, and a formal investigation will be initiated.

Public and Legal Fallout Expected

The complaint is expected to spark disciplinary and potentially legal proceedings. Since both individuals are high-level aides to the two most powerful leaders in Karnataka's Congress government, the outcome of this complaint could lead to greater political ramifications, including potential cabinet reshuffles, transfers, or public reprimands.

Political analysts suggest that if the allegations are proven true, pressure will mount on the Congress high command to mediate the growing rift between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, which has been quietly simmering since the government formation.

Internal Party Tensions Grow

The timing of the controversy is particularly sensitive, as the Congress is working on several key development projects in Karnataka and preparing for local body elections. The perception of internal discord may weaken the party's image, giving ammunition to opposition parties.

Moreover, any failure to address the issue decisively could affect the morale of the bureaucracy, especially those posted in politically sensitive offices such as the Karnataka Bhavan.

Conclusion: A Test of Leadership

This incident places the leadership of both Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar under scrutiny, as the alleged assault raises critical questions about workplace discipline, governance ethics, and internal cohesion within the Congress party in Karnataka.

While an official inquiry will determine the factuality of the incident, the political consequences are already unfolding. The Congress party must now balance optics, justice, and discipline to prevent further damage to its image, both in the state and nationally.

As the investigation progresses, all eyes will be on the outcome of the internal inquiry and the response from the Congress leadership—both in Karnataka and at the national level.

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