Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar on Friday firmly rejected growing speculation about an internal revolt within the Congress government, asserting that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will remain in office and that there is no question of a leadership change. His remarks come amid political chatter surrounding a so-called “November revolution” and reports of MLAs travelling to Delhi to meet party leaders.
Responding to these rumours, Shivakumar stated that all 140 Congress MLAs in Karnataka stand together, calling them “my MLAs” and emphasising that factionalism is not part of his political approach. He reiterated that both he and Siddaramaiah are committed to following the guidance of the party high command, dismissing claims of rivalry or power struggles between the two top leaders.
The speculation intensified after several legislators made an unscheduled visit to Delhi, triggering assumptions that they were lobbying for a change in leadership or aligning themselves into groups. Shivakumar, however, explained that the visit was routine ahead of an expected Cabinet reshuffle, and that MLAs seeking ministerial positions naturally meet senior party figures. He stressed that such outreach is their right and does not indicate dissent.
Since the Congress returned to power in Karnataka in 2023, periodic rumours of tensions between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have surfaced, although both leaders have publicly projected unity. The latest round of speculation emerged as Siddaramaiah completed two and a half years of his term, a point at which some believed a power-sharing formula might be activated. Shivakumar clarified that no such arrangement exists and that the Chief Minister intends to serve the full five-year term.
As the Congress leadership moves forward with plans for a Cabinet expansion or reshuffle, party insiders suggest that the focus remains on administrative stability rather than political restructuring. Shivakumar’s strong public endorsement is expected to calm internal speculation and reinforce the party’s message of cohesion.
