The Congress government, formed in 2023, has repeatedly faced speculation of internal friction between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar.
Amid rising chatter about a possible leadership shift in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar firmly shut down all speculation on Thursday. He said he had no interest in internal factions and made it clear that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah would continue in office for the entire five-year term.
His remarks came at a time when talk about a supposed “power-sharing deal” and the so-called “November revolution” had triggered political buzz across the state.
Addressing growing political noise, Shivakumar said he remained committed to party discipline and had no intention of forming separate groups within the Congress.
"All 140 MLAs are my MLAs. Making a group is not in my blood. Both the Chief Minister and I have time and again said we abide by the high command," he posted on X.
The Congress government, formed in 2023, has repeatedly faced speculation of internal friction between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. However, both leaders have publicly maintained that they stand united.
Rumours intensified earlier this week when a group of MLAs seen as close to Shivakumar travelled to New Delhi. Their visit coincided with Siddaramaiah completing two-and-a-half years in office — the milestone many believed could trigger a rotation of power.
Some even described the situation as a “November revolution”, hinting at a major political shake-up. But Shivakumar said the MLAs’ trip had nothing to do with leadership change.
Shivakumar explained that the MLAs had gone to Delhi simply because a Cabinet reshuffle was being planned.
"The Chief Minister decided to reshuffle the cabinet. Everyone wants to become a minister, so it is quite natural for them to meet the leadership in Delhi. It is their right. We can't stop them and say no," he said.
He added that he fully supported Siddaramaiah’s continuation in office. "The Chief Minister has said that he will complete 5 years. I wish him all the best. We will all work with him," he said.
The Congress has also cleared the air, stating that no agreement ever existed where Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar would divide the chief ministership into two halves. Party leaders have reaffirmed that the current leadership will remain unchanged.
With Shivakumar’s latest statement, the party aims to put an end to rumours and focus on governance and Cabinet expansion.
