Karnataka Deputy CM Denies Political Motive Behind US Visit

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar clarified that his visit to the US is purely personal, refuting media reports of meetings with top US leaders. He urged Union Minister Pralhad Joshi to focus on securing project approvals rather than distractions.

Rejecting media reports about his US visit to meet prominent leaders, including former US President Barack Obama, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar clarified on Sunday that the trip is purely personal. "I am traveling to the US along with my family till September 15. The media reports that I am meeting former US President Barack Obama and US Vice President Kamala Harris are incorrect. It is a personal visit," he stated in a press release.

Shivakumar also issued a letter to AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge to further clarify his trip's non-political nature. "Regarding my upcoming visit to the United States of America, I would like to dispel the ongoing rumors—my visit is purely for personal reasons and is in no way related to any political motive, nor is it due to any political invitation. I request everyone to kindly refrain from indulging in any kind of conjecture," wrote Shivakumar on social media.

Earlier on Saturday, the Deputy Chief Minister urged Union Minister Pralhad Joshi to focus on gaining approvals for the Mahadayi project and securing funds for the Upper Bhadra project instead of raising unrelated issues. Speaking at his Sadashivanagar residence, he said, "I appeal to Pralhad Joshi with folded hands on the Ganesha Chathurthi to get us approval for the Mahadayi project and funds for the Upper Bhadra project." This response came after Joshi accused the Congress government of using a controversial jail photograph as a distraction tactic.

(With inputs from agencies.)