Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, D.K. Shivakumar, has been appointed as a senior observer for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections, leading him to forgo attending the World Economic Forum (WEF) summit in Davos. The Congress party is prioritizing a strong showing in Assam, where elections for the 126 Assembly seats are expected in March-April.

Shivakumar's new role, along with the appointment of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and Jharkhand leader Bandhu Tirkey as senior observers, underscores the Congress's commitment to mounting a formidable challenge against the BJP government led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Shivakumar acknowledged the appointment, stating that party discipline leaves him with no choice but to comply with the leadership's decision. "Being a Congressman, I have to work for the party," he said, adding, "They have asked me to look after Assam. I had been to Assam earlier as well, long ago, and now they want me there again. I will be going".

The decision to prioritize the Assam elections comes as the Congress seeks to regain political ground and offer a robust alternative to the ruling BJP. Shivakumar expressed confidence in the party's prospects, stating, "The rule in Assam will change and Congress will come to power". He emphasized the importance of unity and discipline within the party, adding, "The entire party is united... This unity must prevail, and that message is clear within the Congress party". He also affirmed that there would be no polarization in the upcoming elections and that the Congress would deliver a clear message to the people of Assam, conveying their programs effectively.

While Shivakumar's absence from Davos might raise eyebrows, the Congress party views his presence on the political frontlines in Assam as crucial. The WEF summit, scheduled from January 19 to 23, is an important event. His decision highlights the strategic importance the Congress is placing on the Assam polls and its willingness to deploy key leaders to bolster its campaign.

Shivakumar's appointment has also stirred speculation within Karnataka's political circles, particularly amid ongoing discussions about potential leadership changes in the state government. Shivakumar is considered a key contender in the Congress's internal power dynamics, especially after the government completed half its term in November. When questioned about discussions regarding the Karnataka Chief Minister's post, Shivakumar clarified that the matter is between him, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and the party high command, not for public discussion.

Meanwhile, Shivakumar's recent visit to Delhi to meet with national leaders also sparked speculation about a leadership tussle in Karnataka. However, he clarified that his meeting with Rahul Gandhi primarily focused on Assam election planning and that the senior Congress leader simply asked him and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to continue their good work in Karnataka. Despite the internal dynamics in Karnataka, the Congress party's immediate focus remains on the Assam Assembly elections, with Shivakumar playing a central role in the party's strategy to secure a favorable outcome.