Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar (DKS) shared candid moments from his political journey, asserting his deep-rooted loyalty to the Congress party since his student days. He made the remarks at the launch event of the book titled 'A Symbol Of Loyalty,' authored by K.M. Raghu, held at the FKCCI auditorium in the city.

Recalling the tumultuous period of the coalition government's collapse, Shivakumar revealed a stark choice he faced. "When the coalition government collapsed, I chose to remain loyal to the party, even if it meant staying in jail," he shared. "Even when ten MLAs were on the verge of resigning, I rushed back from Kanakapura to Bengaluru and managed to bring back five or six people."

The Call That Decided His Fate -

Shivakumar detailed the call he received during the collapse. "D.K. Suresh was also with me. In a phone call, I was asked whether I would become the DCM or go to jail. They also gave me the option of bringing all the MLAs back. At that moment, I told them I would not abandon the party that had given me so many positions."

"I told them I would rather go to jail," he declared, reflecting on his long association with the party. He noted that former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi gave him a ticket when he was a student leader and later made him a Minister. "I am a person who has wanted to be a political leader since I was a student," he added.

Rooted in Secularism and Rajiv Gandhi’s Ideology -

Shivakumar emphasized his upbringing in secular principles. While mentioning that his knowledge of the RSS was highlighted in the Assembly, he clarified, "I am not a person who reads many books. I developed an interest in politics from my school and college days." He expressed his steadfast faith in the words and guidance of Rajiv Gandhi, who advised, "Create leaders, not followers."

Regarding the newly released book, Shivakumar stated that "99% of the facts in this book are true." He mentioned that the author, Raghu, who is not personally known to him, wrote the book by conducting research and listening to his speeches and other conversations. "One can understand the fruit of my hard work through this book," he concluded. Redmi A4 5G (Sparkle Purple, 4GB RAM, 64GB Storage) | Segment Largest 6.88in 120Hz | 50MP Dual Camera | 18W Fast Charging | Charger in The Box

On Sudha Murty’s Survey Refusal -

Later, speaking to the media after the event about Sudha Murty's refusal to provide information for the caste survey, the DCM offered a brief response. "No one can be forced to give information. It is their wish," he commented. Also Read: Narayana Murthy and Sudha Murty Refuse to Participate in Karnataka Caste Survey; Cite Non-Backward Class Status!