Shivakumar Back in Bengaluru Still Waiting for Congress High Command's Leadership Decision
DK Shivakumar returns from Delhi without clear assurance on Karnataka CM change.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar returned to Bengaluru on Monday after a three-day visit to Delhi, but without any firm assurance from the Congress high command on the long-speculated leadership change in the state. Shivakumar had sought clarity on whether the party intended to replace Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, but the issue remains unresolved.
During his Delhi visit, Shivakumar held discussions with senior party leaders, including AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and senior Congress figure Rahul Gandhi. Sources indicated that the leadership asked him to remain patient, stating that any decision on the leadership question would be taken at an appropriate time. However, no timeline or commitment was conveyed.
Addressing reporters after his return, Shivakumar downplayed speculation and blamed the media for amplifying the issue. He reiterated that both he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah would abide by whatever decision the party takes. “Only time will answer these questions,” he said, refusing to provide further details on his discussions in Delhi.
Also Read: DK Shivakumar Ditches Davos for Assam Polls Strategy
Responding to questions about expectations among his supporters, Shivakumar claimed that support within the party extended far beyond his own camp. He asserted that all Congress MLAs, including Siddaramaiah, stood united, while declining to disclose any private discussions held with the chief minister or party leadership.
The leadership debate traces back to the period following the Congress victory in the 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections. Party insiders have long suggested a rotational chief minister arrangement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, reportedly brokered to resolve competing claims. While Shivakumar’s camp believes the agreed tenure has ended, Siddaramaiah’s supporters deny the existence of any such deal, insisting he will complete the full term. As things stand, the Congress high command has chosen to maintain the status quo, keeping Karnataka’s leadership question open-ended.
Also Read: PM Modi Accuses Congress of Ignoring Assam’s Culture and Security
