Why is There a Demand for 3 More Deputy CMs in Karnataka?

Bengaluru: Amid a growing chorus for DK Shivakumar to become the Chief Minister, another demand is also growing parallelly for three more Deputy CMs in the state. It is being speculated that the demand for more deputy CMs was a part of CM Siddaramaiah’s camp to keep his deputy in check. This comes amid talks that he might seek the CM's post after two-and-a-half years of this government’s tenure. 

The current situation is apparently being developed to also counter Shivakumar's influence both in the government and party. Cooperation Minister KN Rajanna, Housing Minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan, Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi and a few others -- all considered close to Siddaramaiah -- once again raised the demand for three more deputy CMs earlier this week. 

Following the assembly election results in May last year, the Congress had decided for Shivakumar to be “the only” deputy CM amid fierce competition between him and Siddaramaiah for the chief minister’s post. 

It was also said to be a "commitment" made by the Congress leadership to Shivakumar while convincing him to give up his claim for the CM post and to take up the role of DCM.