Amid growing speculation about a potential leadership transition in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has categorically denied engaging in any discussions regarding the replacement of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at the present moment.
Speaking on Thursday, Shivakumar stated that he is “not in a hurry for anything” and made it clear that he had not met any senior party leaders during his recent trip to Mumbai. He stressed that if any conversations on the matter were to occur, they would take place either in Bengaluru or Delhi, and certainly not in Mumbai.
Shivakumar’s statements come at a time when rumours have resurfaced within the ruling Indian National Congress about a possible change in the leadership of the Karnataka government.
The speculation largely stems from an alleged “power-sharing agreement” reportedly reached in 2023 between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, an understanding that continues to be frequently cited in political circles.
Although Shivakumar has previously hinted at the existence of a “secret deal,” he has lately described any such arrangement as something known only to “five–six” senior Congress leaders and has refused to discuss it openly, arguing that public disclosure would only harm the party.
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War of words
In recent days, the underlying tensions have become more apparent. Shivakumar posted a cryptic message on social media declaring that “keeping one’s word is the greatest strength” and “word power is world power,” a statement widely interpreted as an indirect reminder to the party’s central leadership.
In response, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah issued his own measured comments, which many political observers viewed as a pointed reply to his deputy, highlighting the ongoing friction between the two top leaders in the state.
Adding another layer to the situation, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has suggested that he too remains a contender for the Chief Minister’s position, especially amid calls from Dalit organisations for the appointment of a Dalit Chief Minister.
Complicating the scenario further, the Congress central leadership appears poised to step in. Senior leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, are reportedly planning to hold discussions with both Karnataka leaders in order to settle the leadership issue definitively.
For now, the race for Karnataka’s highest political office remains open-ended. Shivakumar continues to insist that he is in no rush and is playing a patient game, while party insiders await a clear directive from the Congress high command.
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