Congress to hold mega convention in Hassan on December 5, says DK Shivakumar

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has confirmed that the Congress party will hold its convention in Hassan on December 5 under the party’s banner. Speaking to reporters after a preparatory meeting at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) office, Shivakumar outlined the plans for the event and the significance it holds for the party.
Shivakumar stated that many Congress leaders had expressed their support for holding the convention in Hassan. He noted that all ministers and district-in-charge ministers are actively working on the necessary preparations.
Additionally, he mentioned that various organisations and communities had shown their support for the convention.
The AICC has directed the party to focus on the protection of the Constitution and discuss the developments in the country during the convention.

A preparatory meeting was held with leaders and office-bearers from four districts to finalise the details. Shivakumar emphasised that all party leaders would be invited to the event.
The convention, according to Shivakumar, will also focus on raising awareness about false propaganda.
“The people have already taught a lesson to those spreading rumours about the state government,” he said. He also assured that the Congress would organise additional events at district headquarters over the next two months to further strengthen the party’s message.
On the topic of the party organisation, Shivakumar explained that efforts would be made to maintain the momentum from the recent by-election victories.
He mentioned upcoming gratitude events at Sandur and Shiggavi and directed Congress leaders Yogeshwar and DK Suresh to organise similar events in Channapatna in December.
Addressing questions about comments from certain Congress leaders suggesting no connection between the convention and changes in the party structure, Shivakumar responded, “If the structure was not finalised, how can it change? We have discussed this with the Chif Minister, AICC President, and AICC General Secretary.”
He also clarified that the meeting between some ministers and the Mysuru district Party President had been arranged with the party’s approval.
Shivakumar was asked about an anonymous letter sent to the High Command regarding internal issues, but he denied knowing anything about it, saying no one had discussed the matter with him.
He also addressed the early departure of Minister Chaluvaraya Swamy from the meeting, explaining that Swamy had a pre-scheduled meeting related to the Kannada Sahitya Sammelana.
Responding to questions about the taluk and zilla panchayat elections, Shivakumar confirmed that preparations are underway for elections expected in February.
He added that after the Hassan convention, a major program will be held in Belagavi, with further details to be shared after a meeting scheduled for the following day.
On the topic of a possible Cabinet expansion, Shivakumar said that there was no need for such discussions at the moment, as the Chief Minister had already addressed the matter. He also clarified that the KPCC President’s post was not vacant, as some had speculated.
Lastly, when asked about the FIR against Chandrashekaranatha Swamiji, Shivakumar reiterated that the Chief Minister had already responded on the matter and emphasised that no one is above the law.
He also criticised Ashok and JDS leaders for politicising cases involving religious leaders, pointing out their lack of action when similar issues arose during the previous JDS government.