I think it's the opposite of a short. I think your engine IS NOT GROUNDED to the battery and the body is attempting to be the ground path It might be that the path is shift linkage--column-ground.
The battery should be grounded direct to the battery with a jumper from either the engine or battery to the body. "This is not always the case" Could even be a corroded ground cable internally
"When I was young" and had the old 70 440-6 car, I had done some work, the battery was in the trunk. I forgot to connect the engine-to-frame jumper. Twisted the key, sparks and noise under the dash AND IT **** THE CLUTCH LINKAGE RETAINER right off the linkage!!!
