BD NarayankarBengaluru, June 3 -- In politics, surrendering office does not always mean surrendering influence. If anything, the Congress has ensured that outgoing Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remains firmly within the party's circle of power by inducting him into the Congress Working Committee.
At first glance, the transition appears uncomplicated. D K Shivakumar assumes charge as Chief Minister and a new chapter begins in Karnataka. Yet the Congress leadership's simultaneous decision to elevate Siddaramaiah to its highest decision-making body suggests that the veteran leader is not being eased into the background.
The appointment comes at a time when Siddaramaiah has made no secret of his intention to remain active in Karnataka...