Amid Karnataka CM Tussle, DK Shivakumar Says He’s ‘Not in a Hurry for Anything’

Amid escalating speculation over a possible change of leadership in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Thursday dismissed talk of any move to replace Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, insisting there have been “no discussions” on the matter.

Shivakumar, who recently returned from Mumbai, said he had not met any top Congress leaders during the visit and stressed he was “not in a hurry for anything.” Any conversation about leadership, he added, would take place in Bengaluru or Delhi, not Mumbai.

Rumours of a transition have grown within the ruling Congress, fuelled by long-standing chatter about a 2023 power-sharing formula between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. While Shivakumar has previously hinted at a “secret deal,” he now says any such understanding is known only to “five–six people” in the party, and discussing it publicly would weaken the organisation.

Subtle Signals, Growing Tension

In recent days, the strain between the two leaders has become more visible. Shivakumar posted a cryptic message on social media saying “keeping one’s word is greatest strength” and “word power is world power,” widely read as a nudge to the party high command. Siddaramaiah, in turn, issued carefully crafted remarks that many interpreted as a pointed response, reflecting the quiet but persistent friction at the top.

Adding another layer to the contest, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara has signalled he remains a contender for the Chief Minister’s post, even as Dalit organisations intensify demands for a Dalit CM.

Congress High Command Steps In

With the debate widening, the Congress central leadership — including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi — is expected to hold discussions with both leaders to settle the issue.

For now, the leadership question remains unresolved. Shivakumar continues to project patience, Siddaramaiah is standing his ground, and the party is waiting for the high command to deliver clarity.