DK Shivakumar Hits Back at Media Over “CM Ambition” Reports, Warns of Legal Action
DK Shivakumar rebuffs reports on CM ambitions, warns media of defamation.
In a heated response to media reports, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has firmly denied claims that he suggested his time to become Chief Minister is near, accusing certain outlets of twisting his words to spark controversy. The clarification came on October 11, 2025, following a public interaction at Lalbagh in Bengaluru, where Shivakumar engaged with senior citizens and morning walkers to address public grievances and gather feedback on the city’s development.
The controversy arose when an elderly citizen, during the Lalbagh event, praised Shivakumar’s four decades of dedication to the Congress party and expressed a desire to see him as Chief Minister. A video captured the man saying, “Sir, you have worked hard for 40 years for the party’s growth. It’s only justified that you become the Chief Minister,” and asking if the “time was nearing.” Some media outlets reported this as Shivakumar stating that his time to assume the Chief Minister’s role was approaching, prompting a sharp rebuttal from the Congress leader.
“Some media houses are twisting my statement and are trying to create a controversy. I have never said that it is time for me to become the Chief Minister,” Shivakumar told reporters. “During the public interaction at Lal Bagh, some people said that I must become the Chief Minister. But the media has twisted it and is reporting it as my statement. Don’t twist the news and create a controversy.” He further warned, “I’ll file a defamation case if anyone twists my statement and broadcasts it.”
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Emphasizing his commitment to public service over personal ambition, Shivakumar stated, “I am not in a hurry to occupy the Chief Minister’s chair. I am in politics to serve the people and not to do politics. I am working day in and day out to serve the people.” He also cautioned the media against sensationalizing the issue, threatening to exclude non-cooperative outlets from future press conferences and events.
The incident has reignited discussions about leadership dynamics within Karnataka’s Congress government, but Shivakumar’s strong denial underscores his focus on governance and public welfare over political speculation. As the state navigates developmental challenges, the Deputy CM’s remarks highlight the need for accurate reporting to avoid unnecessary controversies.
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