'No War, No Conflict’: CM’s Son Rebuts Talk of Power Struggle with D.K. Shivakumar

Yathindra Siddaramaiah, son of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Congress MLC, categorically dismissed rumours of a leadership crisis in the state’s ruling party, declaring that there is “no war, no conflict” between his father and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. Speaking in Mandya amid intense media speculation about a possible change of guard, he insisted that discussions about replacing the Chief Minister exist only in newsrooms and not within Congress ranks.

He emphasised that the Congress high command, led by AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, has issued no directive for a leadership change and that both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar remain fully committed to the party’s central decision. Yathindra described the reported tensions as exaggerated narratives, adding that the high command will summon both leaders to Delhi whenever necessary and resolve any differences behind closed doors.

Addressing voices from certain quarters demanding that Shivakumar be elevated to Chief Minister, Yathindra maintained that individuals are free to express personal opinions, but only the high command holds the authority to decide Karnataka’s leadership. He reminded the media that external commentators have no role in internal party matters and urged restraint in projecting factionalism among MLAs.

Also Read: Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar Share Stage Amid Karnataka Power Struggle, Signaling Temporary Truce

The former MLA downplayed the existence of multiple chief ministerial aspirants as a routine feature of politics, pointing out that similar ambitions surfaced even when the BJP was in power. He expressed confidence that the ongoing confusion would be cleared soon, stating that the high command “will pull the curtain” on the moment it deems fit.

With both senior leaders reportedly scheduled to meet the central leadership in the coming days, Yathindra’s public assertion of unity is being viewed as an attempt to calm restless party workers and prevent further escalation of the perceived power struggle ahead of crucial local body elections.

Also Read: Siddaramaiah Safe for Now as Congress MLAs Rally Behind Him Amid DK Shivakumar Pressure