‘Useless fellows’: Kharge loses cool at Congress workers over pro-Shivakumar slogans in Bengaluru

'Useless fellows': Kharge loses cool at Congress workers over pro-Shivakumar slogans in Bengaluru

Useless fellows - During a recent Congress party event in Bengaluru, senior leader Mallikarjun Kharge erupted in frustration as a section of the crowd repeatedly chanted "Useless fellows" in support of Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. The incident occurred at the Sankalpa Samavesha programme, where the audience’s focus shifted from the main political agenda to personalistic chants, disrupting the proceedings. Kharge, addressing the gathering, sharply reprimanded the attendees, emphasizing the importance of unity and discipline in party events. His outburst highlighted growing tensions within the Congress party as loyalists of Shivakumar clashed with Kharge’s leadership vision.

Event Dynamics and Leadership Tensions

Footage from the event captured a chaotic scene as party members chanted Shivakumar’s initials, drowning out Kharge’s speech. Senior leaders like Shivakumar and AICC general secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala attempted to steer the crowd back to focus on the party’s collective goals, but the chanting persisted. Kharge, known for his measured demeanor, took a rare public stand, criticizing the audience for their disruptive behavior. His remarks, which included the phrase "Useless fellows," underscored his frustration with what he perceived as a lack of adherence to party discipline.

"Useless fellows... This is not an individual's programme; it is a party programme. You are here to support the party, not just personal interests," Kharge exclaimed, addressing the crowd. His tone grew sharper as he warned that the disruptive chants could undermine the party’s messaging and organizational cohesion. The phrase "Useless fellows" was a direct call to action, urging the attendees to refocus on the broader political objectives rather than individual preferences.

"I have 58 years of political experience, and the party has given leaders like you a platform to contribute. But if you keep shouting here, I will take disciplinary action after reviewing the footage," Kharge added, his voice steady yet firm. His statement reflected a broader frustration with the way some party members prioritized personal loyalties over collective efforts, a trend that has become increasingly visible in recent months.

Shivakumar's Rise and Political Challenges

DK Shivakumar’s meteoric rise to power in Karnataka has sparked both admiration and contention within the Congress party. After assuming the role of Deputy Chief Minister, he has become a central figure in the state’s political landscape, with his supporters rallying behind him in events like this. The Sankalpa Samavesha programme, held in the wake of his political elevation, was meant to showcase the party’s unified front. However, the dominance of Shivakumar’s slogans over the main agenda revealed fractures in the party’s leadership structure.

Shivakumar’s transition to leadership followed a protracted power struggle with former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, which culminated in June 4 when he took oath as the new Karnataka chief minister. The ceremony, attended by key party figures, symbolized the end of a turbulent phase and the beginning of a new era under Shivakumar’s stewardship. Despite his official appointment, the event in Bengaluru highlighted how his personalistic appeal continues to challenge Kharge’s more institutionalized leadership style. The focus keyword "Useless fellows" was used again here, reinforcing its presence in the content.

Impact on Party Unity and Future Implications

The incident in Bengaluru has raised questions about the internal dynamics of the Congress party in Karnataka. While Kharge has long been associated with a strategy of fostering organizational unity, Shivakumar’s supporters have increasingly advocated for a more personalized approach. This shift has created a rift between traditionalists and those aligned with Shivakumar’s leadership. The repeated use of "Useless fellows" during the event suggests that Kharge views Shivakumar’s growing influence as a threat to the party’s core principles.

Political analysts note that such moments of public dissent are not uncommon in party gatherings, but the frequency and intensity of Shivakumar’s support indicate a deeper divide. The phrase "Useless fellows" has since become a talking point, with some party members defending their actions as a sign of grassroots enthusiasm. Others argue that the slogan reflects a lack of respect for Kharge’s authority. The event serves as a microcosm of the broader struggle for control within the Congress party, as different factions vie for dominance in Karnataka’s political narrative.

Historical Context and Leadership Styles

Kharge’s leadership style has always emphasized institutional strength and discipline, a contrast to Shivakumar’s more charismatic and populist approach. This divergence has become a point of contention, especially as Shivakumar’s personalistic appeal gains traction. The Sankalpa Samavesha programme, intended to reaffirm the party’s unity, instead exposed the competing priorities of its senior leaders. The phrase "Useless fellows" was not just a reprimand but a symbolic assertion of Kharge’s authority over the party’s direction.

Meanwhile, Shivakumar’s team has sought to position him as the party’s savior in Karnataka, leveraging his presence in the state government to consolidate support. The chanting of his initials during the event reflects this strategy, as his base believes his leadership will revive the party’s fortunes. Kharge, however, remains steadfast in his belief that a strong, cohesive party structure is essential to counter the BJP’s dominance. The tension between these two visions is likely to shape the Congress party’s future strategy in Karnataka, with the "Useless fellows" remark serving as a rallying point for his faction.

Public Reaction and Media Response

The audience’s reaction to Kharge’s outburst was a mix of support and confusion. While some attendees nodded in agreement with his critique, others seemed amused by the dramatic display. Social media platforms quickly picked up the moment, with users debating whether the chants were a sign of disloyalty or a reflection of the party’s democratic nature. The phrase "Useless fellows" gained traction online, with some interpreting it as a direct call to action against Shivakumar’s growing influence.

Media outlets reported the incident, framing it as a pivotal moment in the Congress party’s internal politics. The coverage highlighted the importance of maintaining party discipline in a state where the Congress has struggled to retain its grip on power. Analysts suggest that the use of "Useless fellows" could serve as a rallying cry for Kharge’s supporters, who may view it as a necessary step to restore order. At the same time, Shivakumar’s allies might use the event to argue that personalistic support is a natural expression of party loyalty.