Amid ongoing political speculation on leadership changes in the State, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said he was “not intimidated” by threats, asserting his political experience.
During his interaction with representatives of the Bangalore Apartments’ Federation (BAF) at Vidhana Soudha, he said, “I am an eight-time MLA and have gone to jail without fearing the Prime Minister or the Home Minister.”
Response to letter
This came in response to a letter Mr. Shivakumar read out, written to him by a citizen, cautioning him against neglecting apartment residents. The letter stated that apartment owners could influence the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) elections and alleged that successive governments had neglected their concerns.
Describing the tone of the letter as ‘threatening’, the Deputy Chief Minister said in an argumentative tone, “We are not intimidated. One must have basic common sense about who they are talking to. If I did not want to help, why would I have called people here and sought their feedback?”.
He referred to his electoral record, noting that his repeated victories reflected the trust and support of the people. “I have won eight times. That is the kind of love people have shown, and it reflects the faith and trust they have placed in me. I have been part of Bengaluru’s growth and development,” he said.
JD(S) slams DKS
Following the Deputy Chief Minister’s comments, the Janata Dal (Secular) accused Mr. Shivakumar of ‘intimidating citizens and displaying arrogance unbecoming of a constitutional office-holder’.
The JD(S), on its official X handle, said questioning elected representatives was a democratic right and alleged that Mr. Shivakumar, as Deputy Chief Minister and Minister in charge of Bengaluru City Development, had threatened citizens from the stage.
“Such conduct did not bring credit to public representatives in a democracy,” the party said, adding that voters would respond appropriately at the polls.
Published – December 13, 2025 08:53 pm IST
