Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge criticised party workers for raising slogans in support of Karnataka Chief Minister
June 21, 2026: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his displeasure during the Sankalpa Samavesha programme in Bengaluru after a section of party workers repeatedly raised “DK-DK” slogans in support of Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. The chants disrupted Kharge’s speech, prompting senior leaders, including Shivakumar and AICC general secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala, to appeal to the crowd to maintain order.
Interrupting his address, Kharge firmly rebuked the workers, stating that the event was a party programme and not meant to glorify any individual leader. He warned that the Congress does not promote personality-centric politics and said disciplinary action could be taken after reviewing footage of those responsible for the disruptions.
Highlighting his 58 years of political experience, Kharge said the party had contributed significantly to the growth of many leaders and stressed that collective organisation should take precedence over individual popularity. The remarks came weeks after DK Shivakumar took oath as Karnataka Chief Minister, ending a prolonged leadership tussle within the state Congress unit.